The Office of the Ombudsperson (OOM) is a safe place to start when you need to talk over a work-related issue. The role of the Ombudsperson is to mediate in conflicts of any nature related to employment in IOM, inter alia, matters pertaining to conditions of employment, administration of benefits, managerial practices, as well as professional and staff relations. The Ombudsperson will answer your questions, help you work out your options, refer you to other services if necessary, and help you resolve your concerns.

The Office of the Ombudsperson operates in accordance with the following Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of the International Ombuds Association:

Independence: The Ombudsperson is independent in structure, function, and appearance to the highest degree possible within the organization.

Neutrality and Impartiality: The Ombudsperson, as a designated neutral entity, remains unaligned and impartial. The Ombudsperson does not engage in any situation which could create a conflict of interest.

Confidentiality: The Ombudsperson holds all communications with those seeking assistance in strict confidence and does not disclose confidential communications unless permission is given to do so. The only exception to this privilege of confidentiality is when there appears to be imminent risk of serious harm.

Informality: The Ombudsperson, as an informal resource, does not participate in any formal adjudicative or administrative procedures related to concerns brought to his/her attention.

By deciding to speak to the Ombudsperson, it is understood that these principles will be applied:

  • The Ombudsperson does not disclose confidential information
  • The Ombudsperson will not participate in or testify in any formal proceeding, even if asked to; and,
  • Talking with the Ombudsperson does not mean that you are notifying the Organization about your concerns, unless you voluntarily wish to do so.

The Office of the Ombudsperson offers a number of activities to stimulate a respectful workplace environment, prevent and deescalate negative conflict, and network to bring leading-edge tools and added value to the Organization. Some of OOM’s activities include:

  • Difficult Conversations Micro-learning Units
  • Diversity and Inclusion Initiative
  • Dignity Initiative
  • Conflict toolbox
  • Conflict Resolution Master Classes
  • IOM School of Negotiation
  • OOM Respectful Classroom
  • OOM Mediation Network
Contact information

IOM Ombudsperson
Email: ombudsperson@iom.int

 

Related Topics & Pages

IOM Organizational Structure