Informal Conflict Resolution with the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services

Card image

Ramona Padurean

Conflict Resolution Officer

Card image

Nicholas Theotocatos

Regional Ombudsman

Card image

Debbi Varidel

Administrative Assistant

 

The United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services (UNOMS) provides UN Secretariat personnel with services to help address concerns, resolve conflicts and support an overall harmonious workplace environment. We work with both parties in a conflict and with other stakeholders, including representatives of management and staff. In addition, we build the capacity of staff to deal with conflict effectively through training and coaching. We also provide systemic feedback to the Organization based on case trends and observations. Our work is guided by the principles of independence, neutrality, confidentiality and informality.

 

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH AN OMBUDSMAN

  • Meeting with an ombudsman is a safe first step. Any exchange with an ombudsman is confidential.
  • A conversation with an ombudsman is always off the record. Sharing information with an Ombudsman does not constitute notice to the Organization. We cannot be called to testify or report on individual cases; whatever is said during meetings with an ombudsman remains confidential unless you give explicit permission to share the information with others.
  • Discussing a concern in a confidential setting will help you gain perspective and choose the option that suits you best.
  • An ombudsman can help you navigate the UN system to find the right office or person to answer your question(s).
  • You can visit us before filing a formal complaint, in parallel or afterwards. It is usually best to come as early as possible before the conflict escalates.

 

For more information about the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services, please go to: https://www.un.org/ombudsman/ or write to: unoms@un.org

 

Contact information in Geneva:

Mr. Nicholas Theotocatos

Regional Ombudsman
Palais des Nations
Geneva, Switzerland
Phone: (+41) 22 917 3760
nicholas.theotocatos@un.org

 

Copyright © UNOG CLM 2025. All Rights Reserved.
Rev 2.1.5