Investigation

The Investigation Office examines and determines the veracity of allegations about misconduct or other irregularities affecting UNESCO, its projects, assets or personnel. It is the sole entity within UNESCO responsible for investigating fraud, corruption or other prohibited practices by the Organization’s staff members and vendors. It promotes fraud awareness by identifying and addressing high fraud risk areas and it strives to protect human and financial resources. It is committed to enhance transparency and accountability. Together with the best practices from the United Nations Representatives of Investigations Services (UNRIS), the Uniform Guidelines for Investigations set up the standards by which every investigation is conducted.

Staff members and other personnel have the duty to report any misconduct or breach of UNESCO’s official rules and regulations. A refusal to collaborate, the provision of intentionally false or misleading allegations and interfering with the investigation process constitute misconduct and may result in administrative or disciplinary measures. The Investigation Office accepts reports by all individuals, regardless of their contractual situation with the Organization. As established in the UNESCO Whistleblower Protection Policy, any data communicated to the Investigation Office remains strictly confidential.