Onjo Simson

  The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is launching an investigation into allegations of corruption within its $1.5 billion construction program in Iraq. The move comes after a Guardian investigation uncovered claims that UNDP staff were soliciting bribes in exchange for assisting individuals in securing lucrative construction contracts. The UNDP's administrator, Achim Steiner, has ordered a management review and assessment of the allegations, aiming to address concerns raised by donors and restore credibility to the organization's operations in Iraq. According to an internal document obtained by the Guardian, the UNDP has referred numerous cases related to the reconstruction program to its Office of Audit and Investigations (OAI). While the majority of these cases involved suppliers, some employees were also implicated. The UNDP emphasizes its commitment to fostering a work culture where all personnel can report wrongdoing without fear of retaliation. However, rece

  A Guardian investigation has uncovered allegations of corruption within the UN Development Programme's (UNDP) Funding Facility for Stabilization project in Iraq. The project, launched in 2015 with $1. 5 billion in support from 30 donors, aimed to aid Iraq's postwar reconstruction. However, whistleblowers claim UN staff are demanding bribes from businessmen in exchange for helping them win contracts. This alleged bribery scheme is just one example of mismanagement and corruption the Guardian found within the project. Despite Iraq's massive oil revenues, the country still struggles with poor infrastructure and services. Critics attribute this to rampant corruption, often described as "the lifeblood of politics in Iraq." The UN, aiming for greater transparency, typically carries out projects directly. However, interviews with former and current UN employees, contractors, and officials suggest the UN's presence might be inadvertently fueling the bribery cu