Key Takeaways:
- IOM’s Ombudsperson Office: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has an Office of the Ombudsperson dedicated to mediating employment-related conflicts within the organization.
- Services Offered: The office provides confidential consultations, explores resolution alternatives, and offers mediation services to address workplace issues.
- Guiding Principles: The Ombudsperson operates under principles of independence, neutrality, impartiality, confidentiality, and informality.
- Accessing Services: IOM staff can contact the Ombudsperson via email at ombudsperson@iom.int or by phone at +41 22 717 95 61.
In the complex landscape of international migration management, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) recognizes the importance of maintaining a harmonious and productive work environment. Central to this commitment is the Office of the Ombudsperson and Mediation Services, established to assist IOM staff in navigating and resolving workplace conflicts.
Role and Function
The Ombudsperson serves as an independent, neutral, and confidential resource for all IOM employees. Their primary role is to mediate conflicts related to employment, including issues concerning conditions of employment, administration of benefits, managerial practices, and professional and staff relations. By providing a safe space for discussion, the Ombudsperson helps individuals explore options for resolving disputes and guides them toward appropriate resources, including mediation when necessary.
Guiding Principles
The operations of the Ombudsperson are anchored in the following principles:
- Independence: Operating independently in structure and function to ensure unbiased assistance.
- Neutrality and Impartiality: Remaining unaligned and impartial, avoiding any conflicts of interest.
- Confidentiality: Maintaining strict confidentiality of all communications, with disclosure only permitted when explicit consent is given or in cases of imminent risk of serious harm.
- Informality: Serving as an informal resource, not participating in formal adjudicative or administrative procedures.
Services Provided
The Office of the Ombudsperson offers a range of services aimed at fostering a respectful workplace and preventing conflicts. These include:
- Difficult Conversations Micro-learning Units: Providing tools to navigate challenging discussions effectively.
- Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Promoting an inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives.
- Conflict Resolution Master Classes: Offering training to enhance conflict resolution skills among staff.
- IOM School of Negotiation: Equipping employees with negotiation skills pertinent to their roles.
- Mediation Network: Establishing a network of mediators to assist in resolving disputes amicably.
Accessing the Ombudsperson
IOM staff members seeking assistance can reach out to the Ombudsperson through various channels:
- Email: ombudsperson@iom.int
- Phone: +41 22 717 95 61
Additionally, the Ombudsperson is available for consultations via Skype under the username “iomombudsperson.”
Conclusion
The Office of the Ombudsperson and Mediation Services plays a crucial role in upholding IOM’s commitment to a fair and harmonious workplace. By providing confidential and impartial support, the Ombudsperson helps address and resolve conflicts, contributing to the overall effectiveness and well-being of the organization.
#
