Source · Select Committees · International Development Committee
Recommendation 29
29
Not Addressed
Paragraph: 109
Our evidence suggests that UN whistle-blowers continue to run the risk of retaliation if they...
Recommendation
Our evidence suggests that UN whistle-blowers continue to run the risk of retaliation if they speak out about sexual exploitation and abuse. The FCDO should consider what measures it has at its disposal to tackle this problem, including the funding mechanisms which can be applied, such as those used by the United States Congress to hold US aid delivery partners to account for their conduct. The UK should advocate to the UN on its responsibility to protect whistle-blowers and the important role they play in bringing abuses to light.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government response focuses on the Prime Minister’s Special Representative for PSVI, the integration of FCDO functions, and the development of a new three-year strategy for tackling conflict-related sexual violence, but does not address the specific recommendations regarding whistleblower protection or advocacy to the UN.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
109
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government · verbatim extract
Not Addressed
We will continue to do so. The Joint Inspection Unit (independent external oversight body of UN system) released in 2018 a comprehensive review of whistle-blower policies and practices in UN system organisations. The UK worked in the General Assembly to actively support the JIU’s review and for full implementation of their recommendations. We will continue to push for this and for best practice policies and practices, to ensure that whistle-blowers are protected.
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