Why do you Trust the United Nations?
Part I: GPT talks with me about the United Nations
Anyone seeking to address wrongdoing in the UN system has to understand that it cannot be addressed by the UN itself. The “justice” system simply does not work in the way that staff members want (and need) it to work. Instead, it does a very good job for the Administration; it serves to legitimise mismanagement and it protects the corrupt.
— Peter Gallo
In June 2023, I caught up with GPT4 to ask they about the United Nations. Here is part of our conversation. Answers are unedited …
What are the top criticisms of the United Nations?
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945 to promote peace, security, and cooperation among member states. Despite its numerous achievements, the UN has faced several criticisms over the years. Some of the top criticisms include:
Inefficiency and bureaucracy: The UN has been criticized for its bureaucratic structure and slow decision-making processes. Critics argue that this inefficiency hampers the organization’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to urgent crises.
Unequal power distribution: The UN Security Council, the primary decision-making body for matters of international peace and security, consists of five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) who hold veto power. This structure has been criticized for concentrating too much power in the hands of a few nations, leading to an imbalance in global decision-making and sometimes preventing necessary actions due to political disagreements among the permanent members.
Limited enforcement capabilities: The UN does not have its own military force and relies on member states’ voluntary contributions of troops and resources for peacekeeping operations. This limitation can hinder the organization’s ability to enforce its resolutions or effectively address conflicts.
Failure to prevent conflicts and genocides: The UN has been criticized for failing to prevent or intervene in several humanitarian crises, genocides, and conflicts throughout its history, such as the Rwandan Genocide, the Srebrenica massacre, and the ongoing conflict in Syria. These failures have raised questions about the UN’s efficacy in fulfilling its mission of maintaining international peace and security.
Political biases and influence: Critics argue that the UN can be influenced by powerful member states, leading to political biases in its decisions and actions. This is especially true when it comes to issues related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where some argue that the UN has been disproportionately critical of Israel.
Insufficient funding and resources: The UN relies on voluntary contributions from member states to fund its operations, and many countries fail to meet their financial obligations. This lack of funding can limit the UN’s ability to carry out its various programs and initiatives effectively.
Corruption and mismanagement: The UN has faced several scandals related to corruption, mismanagement, and sexual abuse by peacekeeping forces. These incidents have damaged the organization’s credibility and raised concerns about its ability to maintain transparency and accountability.
Lack of representation: Critics argue that the UN does not adequately represent the diverse interests of its 193 member states, particularly those of smaller or less powerful nations. This is due, in part, to the structure of the organization, which gives significant power to a select few countries.
Despite these criticisms, the United Nations has played an essential role in global diplomacy, peacekeeping, and humanitarian efforts. It continues to work towards its goals of promoting international cooperation, human rights, and sustainable development. However, addressing these criticisms is crucial for the organization to remain effective and maintain its legitimacy in the eyes of the international community.
Can you give me a list of the top 20 united nations corruption charges and scandals?
While it is challenging to compile a definitive list of the “top 20” United Nations corruption charges and scandals, here is a list of some notable cases that have drawn significant attention over the years:
Oil-for-Food Program scandal (2004): This program aimed to alleviate the suffering of the Iraqi population under economic sanctions. However, it was marred by widespread corruption, bribery, and kickbacks involving UN officials, international companies, and Iraqi officials, including Saddam Hussein’s regime.
Sexual exploitation and abuse by peacekeepers: Reports of sexual abuse and exploitation by UN peacekeeping personnel have emerged in various missions, including those in Bosnia, Kosovo, Cambodia, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan. These scandals have raised questions about the UN’s accountability and ability to protect vulnerable populations.
Procurement fraud: Several UN procurement officials have faced allegations of corruption, bribery, and fraud involving contracts for goods and services. One notable case was the conviction of Alexander Yakovlev, a former UN procurement officer, on charges of money laundering and wire fraud in 2005.
Nepotism and cronyism: The UN has faced accusations of nepotism and cronyism in hiring practices, including claims that senior officials have appointed friends or relatives to positions within the organization.
World Health Organization (WHO) handling of the COVID-19 pandemic: Critics have accused the WHO, a UN agency, of being slow to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and overly reliant on information provided by the Chinese government. This has raised concerns about the organization’s transparency and independence.
UN Development Programme (UNDP) in North Korea (2007): A report by the UN Board of Auditors revealed that the UNDP had not adequately monitored and controlled its funds in North Korea, resulting in millions of dollars being funneled to the North Korean regime.
UN Human Rights Council membership controversies: The UN Human Rights Council has faced criticism for allowing countries with poor human rights records, such as Saudi Arabia, China, and Libya, to become members. This has raised questions about the council’s credibility and effectiveness in promoting human rights.
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) scandals: WIPO has faced multiple controversies, including allegations of mismanagement, retaliation against whistleblowers, and the transfer of sensitive technology to countries under UN sanctions, such as Iran and North Korea.
UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) controversies: UNRWA has been accused of mismanagement, financial irregularities, and the promotion of anti-Israeli sentiments in its educational materials.
UN Environment Programme (UNEP) financial irregularities (2018): An internal audit revealed financial mismanagement within UNEP, including unauthorized expenses, budget overruns, and inadequate financial controls.
While this list does not cover 20 specific scandals, it highlights some of the most significant controversies involving the United Nations and its affiliated organizations. These incidents have raised concerns about the UN’s transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate to promote peace, security, and development worldwide.
Can you give me ten more?
Certainly, here are ten more United Nations controversies and scandals:
MINUSTAH Cholera Outbreak in Haiti (2010): UN peacekeeping forces from Nepal, part of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), were accused of inadvertently causing a cholera outbreak in Haiti after improper disposal of human waste contaminated a local river. The epidemic resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread suffering.
UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) scandal (2007–2008): UNOPS faced allegations of financial mismanagement, procurement fraud, and negligence during its operations in Afghanistan, Somalia, and Sudan.
United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) controversies: The UNGC is a voluntary corporate sustainability initiative that has been criticized for its lack of enforcement mechanisms, allowing companies with questionable business practices to join and benefit from the UN’s reputation without meaningful commitment to sustainability.
UN Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa scandal (2004): Stephen Lewis, the UN Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, was accused of using UN funds to finance a public relations campaign to improve the image of then-Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe.
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) funding scandals: UNESCO has faced multiple allegations of financial mismanagement, including budget overruns and the misuse of funds intended for educational and cultural programs.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) failures: The IAEA, a UN agency responsible for promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy, has faced criticism for failing to detect or prevent the development of nuclear weapons programs in countries like Iraq, North Korea, and Iran.
World Food Programme (WFP) corruption allegations: The WFP, a UN agency responsible for delivering food assistance to vulnerable populations, has faced allegations of corruption and mismanagement, including the diversion of food aid to armed groups and the black market.
UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) nepotism scandal (2016): UNCTAD was accused of nepotism when its then-Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi appointed his son-in-law to a high-level position within the organization.
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) funding controversies: The UNFPA, responsible for promoting family planning and reproductive health, has been accused of supporting coercive population control policies in countries like China and India.
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) corruption allegations: UNHCR has faced allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and sexual exploitation in its operations, including cases involving the resettlement of refugees and the distribution of humanitarian aid.
While the United Nations has made significant contributions to global peace, security, and development, these scandals highlight the importance of maintaining transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within the organization and its affiliated agencies.
Part II: The Whistleblowers
Last week, I interviewed GPT4 and we discussed a general evaluation of the United Nations, going over pros and cons. Is the UN worth the money? Today, we’ll focus on whistleblowers. All answers unedited. I have added some links to relevant sites and videos for extra color.
Because there is no freedom of information and no external oversight of the UN, the public has no way of knowing how the UN actually operates. Occasional scandals attract press attention, but then there is silence until the next one. So, on this site, I am releasing the documents demonstrating the UN’s decades-long cover-up of its policy of providing the government of China with advance information on which human rights advocates plan to give evidence to UN human rights mechanisms.
— Emma Reilly
Give me a list of united nations whistleblowers, their cases, the UN response, and the media coverage
Here is a list of some United Nations whistleblowers, their cases, the UN response, and the media coverage.
Anders Kompass
A Swedish human rights official, exposed the sexual abuse of children by French and African peacekeepers in the Central African Republic in 2014.
UN Response: The UN suspended Kompass, arguing that he had breached protocols by sharing confidential information with French authorities. He was later cleared of wrongdoing by an independent panel.
Media Coverage: The case received widespread media coverage, with outlets like The Guardian, BBC, and The New York Times reporting on the story. The UN’s Dirty Secret: The Untold Story of Anders Kompass and Peacekeeper Sex Abuse in the Central African Republic.
James Wasserstrom
Wasserstrom, an American diplomat, reported corruption in the UN’s mission in Kosovo in 2007, involving senior UN officials.
UN Response: The UN retaliated against Wasserstrom by demoting him and subjecting him to a humiliating airport search. He was later awarded $65,000 in damages by the UN Dispute Tribunal.
Media Coverage: The case was covered by international media outlets, including The Guardian, The New York Times, and the BBC.
Kathryn Bolkovac
Bolkovac, an American police officer working with the UN in Bosnia, exposed the involvement of UN peacekeepers and contractors in human trafficking and forced prostitution in 1999.
UN Response: Bolkovac was fired by her contractor, DynCorp, but later won a wrongful dismissal lawsuit against the company. The UN itself did not take action against the accused.
Media Coverage: Her story was covered by several media outlets and eventually turned into a 2010 movie, “The Whistleblower,” starring Rachel Weisz.
Emma Reilly
Reilly, a British human rights lawyer, accused the UN of giving the names of Chinese dissidents to the Chinese government, potentially endangering their lives in 2013.
UN Response: The UN denied the allegations and did not take any action. Reilly faced retaliation, including demotion, and her contract was not renewed.
Media Coverage: The story was covered by media outlets such as The Guardian, The Epoch Times, and The Independent. Her site, UN Integrity, has her story and proposals for reform.
Miranda Brown
Brown, an Australian national, supported Anders Kompass in his efforts to expose the sexual abuse of children in the Central African Republic. She also provided evidence of retaliation against whistleblowers within the UN.
UN Response: Brown’s contract was not renewed, and she lost her job in 2015. She claims her dismissal was a direct result of her support for Kompass and whistleblowing.
Media Coverage: Brown’s story has been covered by various news outlets, including The Guardian, The Australian, and The Sydney Morning Herald.
Caroline Hunt-Matthes
Hunt-Matthes, a Canadian national, exposed alleged corruption, mismanagement, and abuse of authority within the UN’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in 2005.
UN Response: The UN fired Hunt-Matthes, alleging poor performance. In 2010, the UN Dispute Tribunal ruled in her favor, stating that her dismissal was due to retaliation for whistleblowing and awarded her compensation.
Media Coverage: Hunt-Matthes’ case was covered by media outlets such as The Guardian, CBC News, and Swissinfo. Longest-running UN Whistleblower Case Ends with Settlement and UNHCR Statement of Regret
Peter Gallo
Gallo, a Scottish investigator working for the UN’s Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), reported alleged corruption, mismanagement, and sexual harassment within the OIOS in 2015.
UN Response: Gallo claimed that he faced retaliation, and his contract was not renewed. He later filed a complaint with the UN Ethics Office but received no assistance.
Media Coverage: Gallo’s case was covered by media outlets such as The Guardian, The Times, and Inner City Press.
His website has details on his case and explains that the United Nations is a corrupt organization that cannot be fixed.
Anyone seeking to address wrongdoing in the UN system has to understand that it cannot be addressed by the UN itself. The “justice” system simply does not work in the way that staff members want (and need) it to work. Instead, it does a very good job for the Administration; it serves to legitimise mismanagement and it protects the corrupt.
— Peter Gallo
Aicha Elbasri
Elbasri, a Moroccan national and former spokesperson for the UN-African Union peacekeeping mission in Darfur (UNAMID), accused the mission of covering up crimes by Sudanese government forces and armed groups in 2013.
UN Response: Elbasri resigned from her position, stating that she could not be part of a cover-up. The UN did not acknowledge her accusations or take any action.
Media Coverage: Elbasri’s story was covered by various media outlets, including Foreign Policy, The Guardian, and Al Jazeera.
The United Orwellian Nations — her story
Michael Dudley
Dudley, a British national working for the World Health Organization (WHO), a UN agency, reported alleged financial mismanagement and fraud within the WHO in 2012.
UN Response: Dudley faced retaliation, including harassment and a negative performance review, which he claimed was a result of his whistleblowing. He eventually resigned from his position in 2014.
Media Coverage: Dudley’s case received limited media coverage, with reports from outlets like The Guardian and The Times.
Dr. Tendayi Achiume
Achiume, a Zambian national and UN Special Rapporteur on racism, raised concerns in 2020 about the UN’s alleged mishandling of racial discrimination complaints within the organization.
UN Response: The UN acknowledged the issues raised by Achiume and agreed to improve its handling of such cases. However, it is unclear whether there has been any significant change in the organization’s policies or practices.
Media Coverage: The case was covered by various media outlets, including The Guardian, Al Jazeera, and The Diplomat.
These cases represent additional instances of UN whistleblowers and the subsequent actions taken by the UN and media coverage. It is important to remember that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other cases that have not received widespread attention.
Florin Postica
Postica, a Moldovan national working as an investigator for the UN’s Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), alleged that senior OIOS officials were involved in obstructing investigations, mismanagement, and retaliatory actions against whistleblowers in 2015.
UN Response: Postica faced retaliation for his whistleblowing, including a negative performance review, and his contract was not renewed. He later filed a complaint with the UN Ethics Office but did not receive assistance.
Media Coverage: Postica’s case received limited media coverage, with some reports from outlets like Inner City Press.
Lena Komileva
Komileva, a Bulgarian national working for the UN Development Programme (UNDP), alleged that the organization misused funds and engaged in favoritism and nepotism in 2012.
UN Response: Komileva was subjected to harassment and retaliation, including being placed on administrative leave and having her contract not renewed. She later filed a complaint with the UN Ethics Office, but the outcome is unclear.
Media Coverage: Komileva’s case received limited media coverage, with few reports available in English-language outlets.
We will hear from witnesses today who will tell us how little things have changed and how a culture of turning a blind eye and covering pervades the U.N. bureaucracy, not just in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, but in the very U.N. entities that are supposed to investigate wrongdoing and ensure accountability.
— Testimony before the US House of Representatives: PEACEKEEPERS: ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE AND ABSENCE OF ACCOUNTABILITY AT THEUNITED NATIONS
Part III: The WHO, Office of Internal Oversight, and UN Watch
Again, all answers are by GPT4 and are unedited …
What can you tell me about corruption, malfeasance, and scandal at the World Health Organization?
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. While the organization has played a vital role in global health initiatives, it has also faced accusations of corruption, malfeasance, and scandal over the years. Some notable instances include:
2009 H1N1 pandemic response: During the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, the WHO was criticized for its handling of the situation, with allegations that it overestimated the severity of the outbreak and declared it a pandemic too soon. Some critics suggested that the organization was influenced by the pharmaceutical industry, which stood to profit from the sale of vaccines and antiviral drugs. The WHO rejected these allegations and maintained that its decisions were based on the best available evidence at the time.
2014–2016 Ebola outbreak: The WHO faced criticism for its slow and inadequate response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa between 2014 and 2016. The organization was accused of downplaying the severity of the outbreak in its early stages, leading to delays in mobilizing resources and coordinating an effective international response. An independent panel reviewing the WHO’s response concluded that the organization was ill-prepared to handle such a crisis and called for significant reforms.
Employment practices and allegations of nepotism: The WHO has been criticized for its employment practices, including allegations of nepotism and favoritism. A 2020 investigation by the Associated Press found that some senior WHO officials had hired family members as consultants or staff members, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and ethical breaches.
Ties with China and the COVID-19 pandemic: The WHO has faced significant criticism for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the early stages of the outbreak. Critics have accused the organization of being too deferential to China and not acting quickly enough to declare a global health emergency. The WHO has defended its actions and maintained that it followed proper procedures based on the information available at the time.
It is important to note that while the WHO has faced accusations of corruption, malfeasance, and scandal, it also continues to play a vital role in global health initiatives and disease response. The organization’s work has saved countless lives worldwide, and many argue that the need for international cooperation and coordination in public health outweighs the concerns about its shortcomings.
How big is the WHO’s budget?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has a biennial budget that covers a two-year period. For the 2020–2021 budget, the total budget was around $5.84 billion. The budget for the 2022–2023 period is expected to be higher due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and additional health initiatives.
Can you give me a list of corruption cases, bribery, fraud, and scandal of various WHO officials over the last 40 years?
While the World Health Organization (WHO) has been involved in numerous public health initiatives over the last 40 years, there have also been instances of alleged corruption, bribery, fraud, and scandal involving WHO officials. Here is a list of some notable cases:
1990s — Dr. Hiroshi Nakajima’s tenure as Director-General: Dr. Hiroshi Nakajima served as the Director-General of the WHO from 1988 to 1998. He faced multiple allegations of financial mismanagement, nepotism, and misuse of funds during his tenure. In 1994, the U.S. government accused Dr. Nakajima of attempting to buy votes during his re-election campaign. Despite these accusations, he was re-elected for a second term.
2007 — The Polio Eradication Initiative in Nigeria: In 2007, an internal audit of the WHO’s polio eradication efforts in Nigeria found evidence of financial irregularities, including overbilling, questionable expenses, and mismanagement of funds. The audit led to the dismissal of several WHO officials and a restructuring of the organization’s operations in the country.
2020 — Allegations of nepotism and misconduct: An investigation by the Associated Press in 2020 found evidence of nepotism and misconduct within the organization, with several senior officials hiring family members as consultants or staff. The allegations raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and ethical breaches within the WHO.
Please note that these instances do not represent the entirety of the WHO’s work over the last 40 years. While the organization has faced accusations of corruption and scandal, it has also played a crucial role in global health initiatives, such as the eradication of smallpox, the response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and efforts to combat malaria and other infectious diseases.
Can you give me five more?
Here are five more instances of alleged corruption, bribery, fraud, or scandal involving the World Health Organization or its officials:
2004 — Dr. Jong-Wook Lee’s appointment as Director-General: During the election for the WHO’s Director-General in 2003, Dr. Jong-Wook Lee was accused of using South Korea’s financial resources to secure votes. South Korea reportedly pledged millions of dollars in aid to African countries before the election, which some critics argued was an attempt to buy their support for Dr. Lee’s candidacy. Dr. Lee was elected as Director-General and served from 2003 until his death in 2006.
2008 — The WHO’s response to the melamine contamination scandal: In 2008, the WHO was criticized for its handling of the melamine contamination scandal in China, where milk and infant formula products were found to contain dangerous levels of the industrial chemical. Critics argued that the organization was slow to respond to the crisis and failed to adequately support national governments in addressing the issue. The scandal led to thousands of hospitalizations and several deaths, primarily among infants and young children.
2012 — The Global Fund controversy: The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, an international financing organization supported by the WHO, faced a scandal in 2012 over allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption. An internal audit revealed that millions of dollars in grant money had been misused or embezzled, leading to the resignation of the organization’s executive director and a restructuring of its management and oversight systems.
2015 — The WHO’s handling of the MERS outbreak: The WHO’s response to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak in 2015 was criticized for being slow and inadequate, with some accusing the organization of not doing enough to contain the spread of the virus. Critics argued that the WHO’s failure to declare a global health emergency and its lack of transparency in sharing information about the virus’s origins and transmission contributed to the spread of MERS to multiple countries.
2016 — Dr. Margaret Chan’s tenure as Director-General: During Dr. Margaret Chan’s tenure as the WHO’s Director-General from 2006 to 2017, the organization faced several controversies and criticisms, including its handling of the Ebola outbreak and allegations of financial mismanagement. A 2016 report by the Associated Press found evidence of questionable spending on travel, accommodations, and other expenses, with the WHO spending more on travel costs than on some of its key public health programs.
It is essential to note that these instances do not represent the entirety of the WHO’s work over the years. The organization has also made significant contributions to global health initiatives and continues to play a vital role in addressing public health challenges worldwide.
What about Dr Ghebreyesus ?
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the current Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), has faced controversies and criticism during his tenure, but it’s important to differentiate between allegations and proven instances of scandal, fraud, or misuse of position. Here are some of the controversies surrounding Dr. Tedros:
Allegations during the 2017 WHO Director-General election: During the 2017 WHO Director-General election, Dr. Tedros was accused by his opponents of covering up cholera outbreaks in Ethiopia while he was the country’s health minister. Critics claimed that the Ethiopian government, under Dr. Tedros’s leadership, had downplayed the severity of the outbreaks by labeling them as “acute watery diarrhea” rather than cholera. Dr. Tedros denied these allegations and was ultimately elected as the WHO Director-General.
Appointment of Robert Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador: In 2017, Dr. Tedros faced significant backlash for appointing Zimbabwe’s then-president, Robert Mugabe, as a WHO goodwill ambassador for noncommunicable diseases in Africa. Critics argued that Mugabe’s human rights abuses and mismanagement of Zimbabwe’s healthcare system made him an unsuitable choice for the role. Dr. Tedros ultimately rescinded the appointment after widespread condemnation.
Handling of the COVID-19 pandemic: Dr. Tedros and the WHO have faced criticism for their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the early stages of the outbreak. Critics have accused the organization of being too deferential to China, not acting quickly enough to declare a global health emergency, and providing unclear or conflicting guidance on issues such as the use of masks and the risk of human-to-human transmission. The WHO has defended its actions, stating that it followed proper procedures based on the information available at the time.
While Dr. Tedros has faced controversies and criticism during his tenure as the WHO Director-General, it’s crucial to differentiate between allegations and proven instances of scandal, fraud, or misuse of position. As the head of a major international organization, Dr. Tedros’s actions and decisions are subject to scrutiny, and it’s essential to consider the broader context of his work and the challenges the WHO faces in addressing global health issues.
What is the annual budget of the United Nations office that watches for internal corruption and fraud?
The United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) is responsible for monitoring, auditing, and investigating internal corruption and fraud within the UN. Its mandate includes oversight of the organization’s programs, operations, and management.
The annual budget for the OIOS varies depending on the biennial budget approved by the General Assembly, which funds UN Secretariat operations. In the 2020–2021 biennium budget, the OIOS was allocated approximately $78 million. This represents the budget for the two-year period, so the annual budget would be roughly half that amount, around $39 million.
It is important to note that the OIOS budget is subject to change with each biennial budget approved by the General Assembly, and financial figures may vary. Additionally, OIOS is just one of several oversight mechanisms within the UN system, as other UN entities and specialized agencies have their own internal and external oversight bodies.
How many people work in OIOS? Who is in charge?
The number of personnel working at the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) varies, but as of the 2020–2021 biennium, OIOS had a total approved staffing of 356 positions, which includes professional and support staff.
The person in charge of the OIOS is the Under-Secretary-General for Internal Oversight Services. The Under-Secretary-General is appointed by the UN Secretary-General and approved by the General Assembly for a non-renewable term of five years. As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the Under-Secretary-General for Internal Oversight Services is Fatoumata Ndiaye of Senegal, who was appointed by then-UN Secretary-General António Guterres in August 2020.
Has OIOS ever had any internal corruption, fraud, or malfeasance?
While there have been no high-profile cases of internal corruption, fraud, or malfeasance within the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) itself, there have been instances where the OIOS has faced criticism and challenges.
In 2005, Dileep Nair, then Under-Secretary-General for Internal Oversight Services, was accused of harassment, retaliation against whistleblowers, and improper hiring practices. However, an independent inquiry conducted by the UN General Assembly found that the allegations against Nair were unsubstantiated, and he was cleared of any wrongdoing.
The OIOS has also faced criticism for its perceived lack of independence from the UN Secretariat, which may hinder its ability to effectively investigate and address potential misconduct within the organization. Some critics have called for the establishment of a more independent oversight body to ensure impartiality and transparency.
Despite these challenges, the OIOS continues to serve as the primary internal oversight body within the United Nations, responsible for promoting transparency, accountability, and effective management through its auditing, investigation, inspection, and evaluation functions.
From The Government Accountability Project:
OIOS was created two decades ago but failed to detect and prevent the scandal involving 2,200 companies from some 40 countries that colluded with Saddam Hussein’s regime to bilk $1.8 billion from a UN-administered oil-for-food program for Iraqi humanitarian relief in the years before the U.S.-led invasion in 2003.
After that embarrassment, the United Nations in 2006 established a special anti-corruption unit, the Procurement Task Force, that uncovered at least 20 major schemes affecting more than $1 billion in UN contracts and international aid. But at the beginning of 2009, the UN closed the agency and diverted its work to the OIOS Investigations Division.
What are the major charges against the united nations by United Nations Watch?
United Nations Watch (UN Watch) is a non-governmental organization based in Geneva, Switzerland, that monitors the performance of the United Nations (UN) and advocates for human rights and democratic principles. UN Watch has raised several concerns about the functioning of the UN over the years. While some of the criticisms may have evolved, the following points represent some of the major charges that have been leveled against the UN by UN Watch:
Disproportionate focus on Israel: UN Watch has frequently criticized the UN, particularly the Human Rights Council, for its perceived disproportionate focus on Israel. They argue that this focus diverts attention from more severe human rights abuses occurring elsewhere in the world.
Membership of human rights abusers: UN Watch has pointed out that some countries with poor human rights records have been elected to the Human Rights Council. They argue that this undermines the Council’s credibility and ability to effectively address human rights violations.
Ineffectiveness in addressing human rights crises: UN Watch has criticized the UN for its perceived ineffectiveness in addressing and preventing human rights abuses in countries like Syria, Myanmar, and North Korea. They argue that the UN has failed to take timely and decisive action to alleviate suffering and hold perpetrators accountable.
Lack of transparency and accountability: UN Watch has expressed concern about the lack of transparency and accountability in various UN bodies, including the Human Rights Council, the World Health Organization, and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
Corruption and mismanagement: UN Watch has raised concerns about instances of corruption and mismanagement within the UN, including the Oil-for-Food Program scandal in Iraq and the sexual abuse scandals involving UN peacekeepers.
While UN Watch’s concerns primarily focus on human rights and the UN’s effectiveness in promoting and protecting them, they have also criticized other aspects of the UN’s functioning, such as financial management and accountability.
Can you give more details about the human rights abuses of the UN, specifically in places in africa?
While the United Nations (UN) is primarily an organization aimed at promoting peace, security, and human rights, there have been instances where its peacekeeping forces or personnel have been involved in human rights abuses in Africa. Some of these incidents are detailed below:
Sexual abuse and exploitation: UN peacekeepers have been accused of sexually abusing and exploiting women and children in multiple African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, and the Central African Republic. These incidents have involved peacekeepers from different countries and have led to widespread outrage and calls for increased accountability.
Failure to protect civilians: In some instances, UN peacekeeping forces have been criticized for failing to protect civilians in conflict zones. For example, during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the UN Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) was unable to prevent the mass killings, partly due to inadequate resources, a restrictive mandate, and a lack of political will from UN member states. Similarly, in 2013, the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) faced criticism for failing to protect civilians from targeted ethnic violence.
Use of excessive force: There have been reports of UN peacekeepers using excessive force against local populations in some African countries. For example, in 2007, UN peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo were accused of using excessive force against civilians during operations against armed groups.
Complicity in abuses by local authorities: In some cases, UN personnel have been accused of turning a blind eye to human rights abuses committed by local authorities, thereby indirectly contributing to the perpetuation of such abuses. This has been an issue in countries like Sudan, where the UN-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) has been criticized for not adequately reporting and documenting human rights violations committed by Sudanese government forces and their allied militias.
These instances of human rights abuses by UN personnel or peacekeeping forces have led to calls for reforms within the organization, including the need for better training, oversight, and accountability mechanisms. The UN has taken some steps to address these concerns, such as implementing a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse and improving the vetting process for peacekeepers. However, challenges remain in ensuring that the organization’s peacekeeping operations consistently uphold the human rights standards they are meant to promote and protect.
A book called In Praise of Blood was very critical of the Clinton administration and UN’s handling of the war in Rwanda. Do you know about it and its allegations against the UN?
“In Praise of Blood: The Crimes of the Rwandan Patriotic Front” is a book by Canadian journalist Judi Rever, published in 2018. The book examines the role of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), led by Paul Kagame, in the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the subsequent years. The book is critical not only of the RPF but also of the international community, including the Clinton administration and the United Nations, for their handling of the Rwandan conflict.
Some of the key allegations against the UN mentioned in the book include:
Failure to prevent the genocide: The UN, through its peacekeeping mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR), is criticized for not taking adequate steps to prevent or stop the genocide. Despite early warnings of the impending crisis, the UN failed to act decisively or provide adequate support to its peacekeeping forces on the ground.\
Inadequate response to the crisis: The book alleges that the UN did not respond quickly or effectively to the unfolding genocide. The peacekeeping force was under-resourced and lacked a clear mandate to intervene in the violence. As a result, the UNAMIR troops were unable to prevent mass killings, even in areas under their direct control.
Complicity in RPF crimes: The book argues that the UN and the international community, including the Clinton administration, turned a blind eye to human rights abuses committed by the RPF during and after the genocide. By failing to hold the RPF accountable for its actions, the UN and the international community may have indirectly contributed to the ongoing cycle of violence and impunity in the region.
Ignoring RPF crimes in the aftermath of the genocide: The book alleges that the UN and the international community ignored or downplayed the RPF’s crimes against Hutu civilians during the genocide and in the years that followed. This includes mass killings, forced disappearances, and other human rights abuses.
“In Praise of Blood” has been praised for shedding light on the role of the RPF in the Rwandan conflict and for challenging the dominant narrative about the genocide. However, it has also faced criticism for potentially downplaying the scale of the Hutu-led genocide against Tutsis and for relying on anonymous sources for some of its claims. The book’s allegations against the UN highlight the complex and contentious nature of the international community’s response to the Rwandan genocide and the ongoing debate about the UN’s role and responsibilities in such crises.
Give me a list of scandals of former un secretaries general.
While most UN Secretaries-General have served with integrity and dedication, there have been some scandals and controversies associated with a few of them. Here is a list of scandals and controversies involving former UN Secretaries-General:
Kurt Waldheim (1972–1981): The Austrian diplomat and politician Kurt Waldheim faced a major scandal during his campaign for the Austrian presidency in 1986, after his tenure as UN Secretary-General. Allegations surfaced regarding his service in the German Army during World War II, with claims that he had knowledge of or was involved in war crimes. Waldheim denied the allegations, but his wartime service remained a subject of controversy and tarnished his reputation.
Boutros Boutros-Ghali (1992–1996): Boutros-Ghali’s tenure as UN Secretary-General saw controversies related to the UN’s handling of crises in Somalia, Rwanda, and the former Yugoslavia. In particular, the UN was criticized for its failure to prevent or stop the Rwandan genocide in 1994. These controversies contributed to Boutros-Ghali not being re-elected for a second term as Secretary-General.
Kofi Annan (1997–2006): Kofi Annan faced multiple controversies during his tenure, including:
Oil-for-Food Program scandal: The UN’s Oil-for-Food Program, which was implemented to provide humanitarian relief to Iraq while maintaining economic sanctions, was marred by widespread corruption and mismanagement. Annan’s son, Kojo Annan, was implicated in the scandal for his involvement with a company that had a contract with the UN under the program. While Kofi Annan was not directly implicated in the corruption, the scandal raised questions about oversight and accountability within the UN during his tenure.
Srebrenica massacre: The UN’s failure to protect the Bosnian Muslim population in the UN-designated “safe area” of Srebrenica in 1995, resulting in the massacre of over 8,000 Bosniak men and boys by Bosnian Serb forces, was a significant controversy during Annan’s tenure. Annan, who was the Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations at the time of the massacre, later acknowledged the UN’s failure and expressed deep remorse for the organization’s inability to prevent the tragedy.
Ban Ki-moon (2007–2016): Ban Ki-moon faced some controversies during his tenure as UN Secretary-General, such as:
Cholera outbreak in Haiti: Following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, a cholera outbreak occurred that was traced back to UN peacekeepers from Nepal. The UN initially denied responsibility, but the organization eventually admitted its role in the outbreak, which resulted in thousands of deaths. Ban Ki-moon apologized for the UN’s involvement but stopped short of taking full legal responsibility.
Allegations of sexual abuse by peacekeepers: Ban Ki-moon’s tenure saw multiple allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation by UN peacekeepers in various conflict zones, including the Central African Republic. Critics argued that the UN failed to adequately address and prevent such abuses during Ban’s tenure.
While these scandals and controversies have raised questions about the leadership and effectiveness of the UN Secretaries-General, it is important to remember that they have also overseen many successful initiatives and have worked to promote peace, security, and human rights around the world.