1. What are irregular practices?
Irregular practices include (i) misconduct, which encompasses, but is not limited to, fraud and corruption involving IFAD staff and consultants; and (ii) fraud and corruption, involving other entities, contractors and individuals.

2. What is misconduct?
Misconduct is failure by a staff member to observe the rules of conduct or the standards of behaviour prescribed by IFAD. IFAD expects consultants to follow the same standards of conduct as staff members, in accordance with IFAD internal rules.

3. Does IFAD investigate all allegations ?
Yes. IFAD has a zero-tolerance stand on fraud and corruption. The Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO) investigates all allegations to determine whether they fall within its mandate, and it decides whether it should pursue the investigation. 

4. What if someone makes an allegation knowing it is false?
If the investigation concludes that the allegation is false and that the person who made it acted in bad faith, that is, with knowledge of its falsity and/or with malicious intent, OA will recommend that the appropriate authority impose sanctions on the person. 

5. Will I be punished if I make an allegation in good faith that turns out to be false?
No. OA would not recommend sanctions or similar actions for anyone who in good faith makes a false allegation.

6. Can someone make an allegation anonymously?
Yes, a person can make an allegation anonymously. But IFAD encourages anyone making an allegation to provide their name, because it facilitates the investigation.

7. How does IFAD encourage cooperating institutions to prevent fraud and corruption?
OA works with these institutions to promote information sharing, including information about IFAD’s policy on preventing fraud and corruption in its activities and operations.