Review of management and administration in the United Nations Environment Programme - JIU/REP/2025/1 and JIU/REP/2025/1(Expanded Report)

The Joint Inspection Unit is pleased to announce the release of its report on management and administration review of the United Nations Environment Programme, prepared by Inspector Conrod Hunte. The objective of the review was to provide an independent assessment of UNEP’s organizational arrangements and processes, regulatory frameworks and related management and administration practices. Two JIU outputs were produced: (a) a report focusing on the main findings, conclusions and recommendations and available in the six official languages of the United Nations; and (b) an expanded report, providing a broader analysis, detailed findings and related supporting information.

UNEP was established the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 to promote international cooperation in the environment field and to coordinate environmental matters within the United Nations system. UNEP secretariat is integrated in the organizational structure of the Secretariat of the United Nations and is subject to the strategies, policies and initiatives approved by the General Assembly and the directives of the Secretary-General.

The Inspector found that: (a) governance and oversight of the organization by Member States should be strengthened through a clearer decision-making process between Environment Assembly sessions; (b) evolving management frameworks, including the 2022 “One UNEP Delivery” model, while fostering collaboration, still need implementation guidance and a monitoring framework; (c) risk management practices are underway, with established tools in place, yet stronger leadership and integration are required; (d) while human resources have expanded considerably, over the past five years, efficiency and oversight across HR processes continue to be areas for refinement; (e) while internal and external oversight mechanisms are active and engaged, increased emphasis on strategic evaluations would further enhance their impact.

The report contains eight (8) formal recommendations: three directed at UNEP governing bodies, and five to UNEP Executive Director. The recommendations are aimed at strengthening the governance framework, enhancing the implementation and monitoring framework of policies and strengthening the risk management and oversight frameworks. These are supported by 27 informal recommendations, which provide further suggestions for targeted improvements.  Considering also the UN80 Initiative which is underway, UNEP stands at a pivotal moment for harmonizing changes brought to its operational model and boosting institutional and governance effectiveness.

Access the report here  

Access the expanded report here

Access the review highlights here