Our Services
Conflict is part of life. It is natural, inevitable and even necessary. In such a diverse workplace as the United Nations, many situations arise where real or perceived differences in views, behaviours or communication can easily result in conflict. Effective handling of workplace conflict requires making sense of it, understanding its complexity and learning new skills to address it. At times, you may need someone else to support you or to intervene.
The conflict-resolution experts in the Office of the United Nations Ombudsman and Mediation Services can help you to explore new perspectives, review options and facilitate difficult conversations. Contacting an ombudsman or mediator is always a safe, confidential first step and can be a good alternative to a formal complaint process.
WORKING WITH AN OMBUDSMAN
Once you have reached out to our Office, as an individual or as a group, we will get back to you within two business days and set up an appointment with you.
During our first meeting, we will listen to understand your specific situation. Once we have a clear picture of the issue, we will discuss together the advantages and disadvantages of various options and opportunities for resolution. Options could include:
- Helping you navigate the system and identify available resources;
- Referring you to a more appropriate office;
- Assessing the advantages and risks of the formal process;
- Exploring various perspectives on the situation, taking into consideration the underlying needs and interests of all involved, to identify possible courses of action.
We are here to help you make an informed decision and to support you in your choice. Through it all, you are in the driver’s seat: ombudsman and mediators will not tell you what to do. You will make the decision of what to do next according to what would be best for you.
TYPES OF SERVICES WE OFFER
Services to Individual Visitors
Our conflict-resolution experts are available to provide one-on-one services to individuals. Depending on the situation, these services may include conflict-coaching sessions, facilitated conversation(s) or a mediation.
Services to Groups and Teams
When a situation affects an entire group or team, our conflict-resolution experts may offer to work with an entire team to help restore a productive work environment.
Services for the Organization
While working with you, our conflict-resolution experts may notice systemic issues. Aggregated and depersonalized, these can be shared with appropriate stakeholders while maintaining confidentiality.