Steps

Initiate informal dispute resolution.

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline

Explanatory Notes

An informal dispute resolution process can provide UNDP Personnel with the opportunity to resolve any complaints or grievances in an open, honest, non-threatening, and non-contentious manner. The informal options available to UNDP Personnel include: 

a) Approaching the alleged offender (self-initiated discussion); 
b) Support by a colleague/manager; or 
c) Consulting the Office of the Ombudsman for professional, impartial and confidential advice as to how to resolve the issue informally, including via mediation

Steps

Approach alleged offender (self-initiated discussion).

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline

Explanatory Notes

A member of UNDP Personnel may not understand that he/she is being offensive and, if asked, may stop or alter his/her behaviour. UNDP Personnel who feel that they are being subject to any type of prohibited conduct are encouraged, where necessary, to inform the alleged offender, at the earliest point in time, that his/her conduct is unwelcome and request that such conduct cease.

Steps

Seek support from a colleague/manager.

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline

Explanatory Notes

UNDP personnel, including the affected person may request a colleague/manager to be present at a meeting with the alleged offender to let her/him know that his/her conduct is unwelcome and request that such conduct cease.

Steps

Consult the Office of the Ombudsman.

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline

Explanatory Notes

(i)The Office of the Ombudsman plays an important role when it comes to workplace related problems. UNDP Personnel may consult the Office if they feel harassed, and/or have witnessed an incident of harassment.  The services of the Office include listening and conflict coaching, identification and evaluation of options, facilitation of dialogue and mediation. The Office is a safe, confidential and informal place for the affected to express their concerns, and examine the various options in the dispute resolution process. The Office provides support within the informal process, informs on the procedures foreseen in the formal grievance process and makes appropriate referrals where necessary.

Steps

Seek third-party neutral intervention.

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline

Explanatory Notes

Send an email to: ombudsmediation@fpombudsman.org

Third-party neutral intervention, particularly mediation, is a process whereby a third-party neutral with no stake in the outcome helps the parties whose lives are affected by a problem make decisions themselves that are mutually acceptable and which may resolve the problem. Mediation can also help prevent a recurrence of situations that cause conflict.

Steps

Review progress with informal process and initiate formal process.

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline

Explanatory Notes

If the affected person is not satisfied with the results of the informal process or if they wish to pursue the formal process immediately, they may submit a formal complaint to OAI at any time.

Steps

Consult the Ethics Office.

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline

Explanatory Notes

Send an email to:ethicsoffice@undp.org

UNDP Personnel may contact the Ethics Office for confidential advice and guidance on their options.