In 2025, the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF) continued its commitment to client engagement and access to relevant pension information for all members through its Pension Townhall Initiative. These sessions provide an invaluable opportunity for participants, retirees, and beneficiaries to learn more about their pension benefits and ask questions directly to UNJSPF experts.

This year, our Client Services organized 33 global pension townhalls, attracting over 17,000 live attendees and generating more than 1,260 questions answered in real time. In addition, 25,000 more accessed the recordings on the UNJSPF YouTube channel, ensuring that those unable to attend live could still benefit from the discussions.

All recordings and related presentations of the most recent 2025 townhall sessions are available on the UNJSPF YouTube channel and can also be accessed through the Pension Townhalls web page. These resources allow clients to access the sessions for the topics relevant to them at their convenience and stay informed about their pension rights and obligations. This year, the Fund put special focus on empowering those separating by offering numerous presentations as well as Pension Q&A sessions with key information on how to prepare for separation and retirement.

Below is a quick guide to help UNJSPF clients navigate the sessions:

• Participants (including new entrants): townhalls covering pension essentials for newcomers and current participants, Q&A for participants, special leave without pay, as well as practical sessions on Member-Self Service.
• Separation and Retirement: sessions on separation with less or more than five years of contributory service, the separation Q&A, special leave without pay are essential for understanding how your pension accrues, what choices you have at the time of separation and how to use useful pension tools.
• Retirees and Beneficiaries: sessions focusing on pension essentials for retirees and beneficiaries, pension payments and two-track essentials, cost-of-living adjustments, and Q&A for retirees and beneficiaries will be most relevant.
• For all: practical sessions on Member-Self Service.

Rosemarie McClean, UNJSPF Chief Executive, highlighted: “The Pension Townhall Initiative is designed to empower UNJSPF clients with knowledge and clarity. Whether you are just starting your career, preparing for separation, or enjoying retirement, these sessions ensure you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your pension.”

The initiative will continue in 2026. Clients are encouraged to visit the pension townhall web page to learn more and join the upcoming sessions.