Language and Communications

We value learning, and continuously seek to develop ourselves and support the development of others.

Values and Behaviours Framework

Our Language and Communications Skills Courses

The CDOTS Language and Communications Training Unit (LCTU) at UN Headquarters offers instructor-led language and communications skills courses across the six official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish. They are offered in a variety of formats (in-person, online, hybrid) to meet the needs of our New York-based and global eligible participants. Most courses are centred around live class sessions.

Topics include general language learning and specific areas, such as grammar, oral and writing skills enhancement. Courses also encompass UN priority topics, such as the Sustainable Development Goals or language-inclusive communication. The course length varies from one-hour skills workshops and webinars to 10-week courses.

Courses are taught by highly-qualified experts in the field of second language teaching with at least a Master’s degree in applied linguistics (or related field) and a minimum of five years of experience teaching adults.

Our Commitment to Online Language Learning

To expand the geographical reach of language learning across the Secretariat, the CDOTS Language and Communications Training Unit (LCTU) identifies high-quality language learning providers and acquires licenses to learn the six official UN languages online. We partner with learning managers to distribute the licenses among staff members who work in remote duty stations. We also monitor the use of licenses and provide detailed reports.

The Online Language Learning Licenses Programme facilitates a ready-to-use language learning opportunity to those who work in remote duty stations, where on-site language training is not available. We evaluate the quality of license providers and ensure competitive prices and contracts for those learning focal points who wish to purchase additional licenses for their teams. We also share advice and best practices on how to generate a learning community.

The Language and Communications Training Unit has elevated online language learning by designing and developing a growing number of short, online self-study courses that are available anytime and anywhere to staff and eligible participants, who can flexibly plan, register and start exploring topics including language and diversity, or consolidate drafting skills.

Our Customized Training

Language and Communications Training Unit experts in learning, language, communications and organizational training, work with client entities to create customized learning products and services on-demand and build capacity in a variety of communication skills, in the six official languages.

Six Official UN Languages
Two students collaborating on a project at a desk, focused on their work and sharing ideas.