Management of Human Resources

- Staff relations, including Disputes -

The FAOR, as the manager of the country office, is the key facilitator for ensuring a positive working environment and building a strong team spirit among the office staff, using regular staff meetings and open personal contacts with the staff, among other, to resolve conflicts and solve any upcoming dispute. However, staff disputes may come to the attention of the RO directly from the staff/office concerned or through CSPL (the unit dealing with grievances, appeals, and disciplinary cases). Such cases should be managed in full coordination with the FAO Representative and CSPL, as appropriate.

In many cases, the first approach should be seeking an amicable solution through dialogue. If need be, professional mediation can be called upon. For issues concerning harassment, the procedures in the Policy on the Prevention of Harassment set out in Administrative Circular 2007/5 should be followed.

Given that Country Offices (COs) are relatively small, staff in those offices need to be assured of a quick response. As a standard practice, within 2-3 days of a dispute being brought to the attention of the RO, a senior officer should make a phone call to both parties to discuss the next steps.