Investigation

The main objective of OIO’s investigative work is to establish the facts in cases of suspected fraud, corruption, abuse of OSCE resources, or other misconduct. This work may extend to examining the conduct of suppliers or implementing partners. Investigations may also serve to exonerate those wrongly suspected of misconduct.

OIO Hotline

OSCE officials have a duty to report instances of fraud or suspected fraud, or other misconduct. Anyone wishing to report their concerns, or to highlight instances of waste of OSCE resources or mismanagement, may contact the OIO hotline by:

Telephone: +43 1 51436 6199
Email: oversight-hotline@osce.org

You can contact OIO also via SMS, WhatsApp, Viber, Signal or Telegram: +43 6763012924

Strict confidentiality standards as well as other standards and procedural safeguards apply to investigations conducted by the Investigation Unit of the Office of Internal Oversight.

Wrongdoing that may be reported using this hotline include but are not limited to: 

• Unlawful acts (for example theft, fraud, embezzlement, solicitation/acceptance of bribes or kickbacks, extortion, possession or sale of illegal substances, smuggling);
• Misrepresentation, forgery, or false certification in connection with any official claim or benefit, including failure to disclose a fact material to that claim or benefit (for example regarding dependency allowance, rental subsidy, insurance, education grant, tax reimbursement or travel cost claims);
• Mishandling of contract obligations and relations with third parties leading to loss of property or assets, or generating liabilities for the Organization;
• Failure to disclose an interest or relationship with a third party who might benefit from a decision in which the staff member takes part; favoritism in the award of a contract to a third party.
• Sexual exploitation and Abuse

To report an allegation, please provide as much detail as possible, including the following:

• What happened? Describe the events with as much relevant detail as possible.
• When did it happen? Dates, time, how many times, etc.
• Where did it happen?
• Who do you think was involved? Who was implicated?
• Who else might have been involved?

Please let us know how we can reach you for further information or clarification.

Can I remain anonymous?

Allegations may be made anonymously. If you prefer to remain anonymous, OIO will respect your wish not to give your name. It should be noted that anonymous allegations are often more difficult to pursue as there may be no way to clarify the information provided or ask questions.

If you choose to remain anonymous, please consider providing a means for OIO to contact you if further information or clarification is needed. For example, using a free web-based e-mail address (e.g. yahoo or gmail) with a pseudonym (assumed name or alias) will allow you to retain your anonymity.