Abstract :
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The fraud case in a Regional Office underscored the importance of strengthening internal controls within ITU. In parallel, ITU has experienced in the last 18-20 months a stiff increase in reports of potential misconduct. Investigating such cases is not only necessary as a matter of ethics and good governance but, in fact, a legal obligation whenever allegations are sufficiently credible. Moreover, such cases entail significant reputational and financial risk. The creation of a full-time dedicated investigator position is an unambiguous sign that ITU seriously intends to tackle misconduct. Likewise, it demonstrates top management's determination to address unethical behavior and to uphold the Secretary-General's commitment to observe a zero-tolerance policy vis-�-vis certain acts such as sexual harassment and fraud. Such creation also brings the ITU in line with best practices within the UN common system.
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