Frequently Asked Questions
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| 1. Are staff required to report possible wrongdoing? |
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| The staff regulations require staff members to report without delay any instances of fraud or possible wrongdoing.
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| 2. What should be reported? |
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| FAO has a zero-tolerance policy vis-ą-vis fraud in all its manifestation and does not tolerate, under any circumstances, the diversion of the resources allocated to FAO from serving their ultimate purpose of ensuring humanity's freedom from hunger. Staff should report the possible existence of fraud, waste, abuse of authority or other irregular activities and practices.
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| 3. How do I report allegations of fraud or misconduct? |
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Allegations can be sent to AUD through a number of confidential channels:
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| 4. Can I submit an allegation anonymously? |
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| Allegations can be submitted anonymously, however, anonymous allegations are more difficult to investigate and staff is encouraged to identify themselves. If you do prefer to remain anonymous, you may wish to provide some contact information to the Office or contact the Office again at a later time. This will allow the investigation unit to correspond with you as necessary, to seek clarification or request additional information.
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| 5. Will the information be treated confidentially? |
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| The confidentiality of witnesses and information is respected at all times. Any staff member who compromises the confidentiality of an investigation is subject to disciplinary action.
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| 6. What happens if the allegations are not true? |
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| No reprisals shall be taken against staff members providing information, unless it is determined that the information was provided with the knowledge that it was false, or with intent to misinform.
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| 7. How long does it take to resolve a complaint? |
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| The time required to complete an investigation varies, depending on the complexity of the matter and number of the allegations received during that time period.
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| 8. Are FAO staff required to cooperate with investigators? |
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| Staff are required to cooperate fully in making available any relevant material or information requested during the course of an investigation, according to FAO rules.
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| 9. Who is informed about the results of investigations? |
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| The Inspector General reports to the Director-General. If the allegations are substantiated, the investigative findings are referred to FAO Human Resources Management Division, which determines the next steps to be taken.
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| 10. What happens if the allegation is determined to be true? |
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| The Inspector-General does not recommend disciplinary action or sanctions when an allegation is substantiated. The Office presents the findings to the FAO Human Resources Management Division, which determines the next steps to be taken. MS 330 provides that unsatisfactory conduct is punishable by disciplinary action, including such severe disciplinary measures as dismissal, or summary dismissal. Furthermore, in such cases, monies due to FAO by the staff member involved are systematically recovered from salaries or terminal emoluments. Depending on the circumstances of each case, the Organization may pursue recovery through the national judicial authorities of the country where the fraud has been committed. |
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| 11. Who decides which departments or project will be audited? |
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| The Inspector General decides, based on a risk assessment, input from the departments and projects themselves, and requests from senior management and staff. |
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| 12. What should I do if I want my department or project to be audited? |
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Discuss this with the Inspector General, who will decide whether the audit will be done. 
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