Global perspective Human stories

UN ombudsperson resolves strife in a ‘cloak of confidentiality’

UN ombudsperson resolves strife in a ‘cloak of confidentiality’

Intro:

Sometimes sparks fly when creativity is mixed with conflict: so explains the official UN Ombudsperson, who helps turn friction into productive solutions.

"When talented and diverse groups function together they produce rich and creative ideas -yet the same process can also result in conflict and tension,” said John Barkat, who is leaving the post after a decade of service.

He maintains that when handled well, discord is a necessary and valuable tool for growth in the UN workplace.

Mr. Barkat, explained to Liz Scaffidi how his offices throughout eight UN locations use “the cloak of confidentiality” to seek resolutions.

Download

Sometimes sparks fly when creativity is mixed with conflict: so explains the UN Ombudsperson John Barkat, who helps turn friction into productive solutions.

Mr. Barkat maintains that when handled well, discord is a necessary and valuable tool for growth in the UN workplace.

He spoke with Liz Scaffidi.

Audio Credit
Liz Scaffidi, UN News
Audio
8'39"
Photo Credit
UN News/Elizabeth Scaffidi