JIU presents findings and recommendations on sexual exploitation and abuse within United Nations system organizations to Member States and UN officials

On 7^th November 2025, in Geneva, Inspector Eileen A. Cronin, Inspector Conrod Hunte and Evaluation Officer, Kamolmas Jaiyen presented key findings and recommendations from the JIU’s review on policies and practices to prevent and respond to sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) within United Nations system organizations. The presentation took place as a UNOG Executive Briefing and was introduced by Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of UNOG with the attendance of approximately 60 delegates from Member States and international organization.

The JIU team underscored the lack of robust regulatory policy frameworks for the prevention of SEA, unclear language around sexual exploitation and solicitation of sex workers, gaps in the protection against retaliation for victims and witnesses reporting SEA as well as policy coverage for emerging technologies. The presentation also highlighted good practices from participating organizations including holistic, principle-based sexual misconduct policies which focus on the conduct of staff rather than defining the victims.  The Inspectors also pointed out that the UN’s current financial problems could limit the resources needed to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse. But real progress depends on more than just money, it requires creating a respectful workplace where people feel safe to speak up. This means the UN needs to take a clear approach to managing change and building a culture that supports openness and accountability.

Member States and international organizations expressed appreciation for the depth and relevance of the review and voiced their eagerness to see its recommendations and good practices adopted across all international organizations.

(From left to right) Ms. Kamolmas Jaiyen, Inspector Conrod Hunte, Inspector Eileen A. Cronin, Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of UNOG, Mr. Erik Marzolf, Inspector Carolina Fernández Opazo, JIU’s Chair

Access the report here
Access the expanded report here
Access the review highlights here