Knowledge

In 2016, the Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO) and its Investigation Section (IS) played a critical role in upholding IFAD’s zero-tolerance stance towards corruption, fraud and misconduct. AUO ensured a timely and effective response to alleged wrongdoing by completing its investigative actions for 56 complaints during the year – a closure rate much higher than in previous years – and generally ensuring a prompt and effective conclusion to issues. 

Anticorruption awareness outreach was intensified through AUO participation in regional and other events, the pilot launch of an anticorruption e-learning module, celebration of International Anticorruption Day and increased coordination with the Financial Management Services Division (FMD), the Ethics Office (ETH) and the Programme Management Department (PMD). Investigative and sanctions processes were improved through revised procedures and AUO investigation capacity was strengthened through new forensic tools and segregated physical and IT environments. 

The Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO) and its Investigation Section (IS) contributed to institutional risk mitigation in 2015 through its review and/or investigation of 57 complaints of irregularities, through improvements in the investigations and sanctions processes and through anticorruption awareness activities. It was a challenging year due to the high volume and complexity of new complaints; a range of reforms to implement; and key staff changes early in the year. Significant additional budget support provided by Management allowed for the engagement of external expertise and ensured that the investigative work was conducted with the required independence and without limitations in scope.

In line with its mandate, the Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO) and its Investigation Section (IS) played a critical role in upholding IFAD’s zero-tolerance stance towards corruption, fraud and misconduct in 2014. It also supported effectively IFAD’s risk management efforts by focusing on areas of increased relevance to the Fund’s evolving operational and financial model and by ensuring a timely and effective response to alleged wrongdoing. 

The Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO) and its Investigation Section (IS) are mandated to investigate alleged irregular practices in IFAD activities and operations. This mandate stems from the AUO Charter, the IFAD Human Resources rules and Code of Conduct, and the IFAD Policy on Preventing Fraud and Corruption in its Activities and Operations. IFAD’s investigative and anticorruption activities aim to ensure that development funds reach intended beneficiaries in the most efficient, effective and transparent manner possible and that IFAD staff adhere to the ethical and integrity standards set by the Fund. The number of new complaints received in 2013 was slightly higher than in 2012 (39 against 33 in 2012). There was an increase in the number of external fraud allegations, particularly in procurement, as well as in the number of staff-related cases. In 2013, AUO successfully closed 41 cases, including several complex allegations, and disciplinary measures or sanctions were applied in six cases: five internal and one external.