Conflict Resolution at the GEF

As part of her reform package, the CEO of the GEF has created a post of Conflict Resolution Commissioner within the Secretariat. The commissioner is an independent voice who reports directly to the CEO. In this role the incumbent works directly with member countries and agencies to help resolve disputes and address complaints and other issues of importance to GEF operations. Through the commissioner the CEO aims to expand feedback and interject a more timely response on GEF-funded projects. Above all else, the Commissioner’s critical mission however is to create an atmosphere of trust and confidence in the GEF family.

 Nurturing this approach is of paramount importance for GEF operations to succeed.  Complaints usually emanate from various sources. They can come from a contract dispute, lack of communication, the perception or wrong doing, genuine concerns or a simple miscommunication.  Regardless of their cause, the potential negative impacts on GEF performance are such that they must be taken very seriously by the Secretariat.

 The conflict resolution framework in the GEF will be lean and simple. It is intended to provide a useful and powerful new tool at the Secretariat to enhance the smooth operation of the GEF. It will start by focusing on two key dimensions:

(a) to work towards expanding existing measures to protect the integrity of the organization (GEF) in a   manner that makes it an unparalleled, credible and trustworthy institution. In this context the CEO’s primary goal is to develop a public disclosure policy. Moreover, her intent is to reinforce compliance and enforcement of a structure that strengthens core principles and values of the GEF.

 (b) to institute a simple conflict/dispute settling mechanism/system. Doing this will add transparency and build trust with all stakeholders whether they are countries or agencies. Procedures will also take into account the fact that GEF operations are handled by several institutions; hence the need to factor in the diversity of agency partners.

In addition, and in view of progress achieved, the work will be expanded to take into consideration the need to strengthen the mission of the secretariat by institutionalizing means of addressing conflicts and disputes within GEF operations. The goal is to make sure that all relevant voices are heard. A more medium to long term goal will look into the conflict resolution framework in a broader context. It will consider addressing more directly those issues which frequently generate the most discourse and controversy. These include issues such as the implementation of the Resource Allocation Framework, the project cycle, and other high profile GEF policies and operations. Advocacy and advisory function will be important for this aspect of the work.

Parties wishing to launch a complaint or ask for dispute settlement are encouraged to send a formal request in the form of a letter or an e-mail to Mrs. Monique Barbut, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of the Global Environment Facility, The World Bank Group, MSN G 6-602 - 1818 H Street, NW -Washington, DC 20433-002.

To learn more about the work of the Conflict Resolution Commissioner and the process being developed at the GEFSEC, please contact Mr. Sekou Toure, Conflict Resolution Commissioner (CV) - Tel: (202) 458-4059 - Fax: (202) 212 9553) - E-mail: Stoure1@theGEF.org.