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Are you facing a difficult situation at work and you don’t know what to do? Contacting UNOMS is a safe first step. We help you address your workplace concerns with dignity, one conversation at a time.

In fulfilling our mission, we aim to establish and maintain a harmonious workplace that benefits everyone.

Why an OMBUDSMAN'S Office?

The Office of the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services was established on 15 October 2002 as the informal component of the system of administration of justice. The United Nations Ombudsman acts in accordance with the principles of independence, neutrality, confidentiality and informality. For more information about our mandate and principles, please consult our terms of reference [ST/SGB/2016/7].

The United Nations strongly encourages all UN employees to make all possible use of the informal system. Staff can bring workplace concerns and questions to the Office of the Ombudsman to try to resolve disputes amicably and to avoid unnecessary litigation. We recommend that staff contact our office as soon as possible to discuss options in a confidential setting. Attempts at informal resolution are often more effective in the early stages of a dispute. At the same time, staff should be aware of any timelines to file formal complaints.

Who can use the services?

Any current or former employee of the United Nations Secretariat can contact our office for assistance. We also have agreements in place to assist employees of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Other entities in the United Nations system also have ombudsmen and mediators, and we make referrals to them as appropriate.

The team

Our diverse team of conflict-resolution experts, led by Ms. Shireen Dodson, United Nations Ombudsman, and carrying out functions of ombudsman and mediators, is committed to supporting a harmonious workplace in which United Nations personnel can thrive and serve the Organization’s beneficiaries around the globe. These professionals know the United Nations system, its rules and policies, and have access to key stakeholders and others who can assist in resolving an issue.

We have offices around the globe ready to help you and we can provide services, in person or virtually, in any of the six official languages of the United Nations.

Why wait? Contact us now! No issue is too big or too small.