Ethics Office (ETH)

The Ethics Office is an independent entity that does not have any direct reporting relationship in PAHO, except for administrative purposes. To assure and maintain its independence, the Ethics Office reports directly to PAHO's Governing Bodies through the Executive Committee. This means that it has complete authority and autonomy and operates without any constraints in carrying out its mission.

The Ethics Office has full authority to provide decisions on ethical issues, such as whether family members or relatives can be employed or contracted by the Organization; whether you can engage in outside activities and employment, accept gifts or participate in political activities; and in any situation where there is - or appears to be - a conflict of interest.

The Ethics Office has complete access to all records and staff of the Organization. It has a duty to protect the confidentiality of information that is brought to its attention and can only share this information with people who have a legitimate need to know.

The Ethics Office is accessible to everyone who works for PAHO, irrespective of the type or duration of appointment, and to family members, clients, stakeholders and vendors. It can be contacted directly or anonymously, through the PAHO Helpline, which guarantees the reporting person's anonymity.

You should contact the Ethics Office to:

• Ask questions about PAHO's Code of Ethical Principles and Conduct and related policies;
• Inquire whether a particular situation raises ethical issues;
• Get guidance on conflict of interest concerns; and/or
• Obtain assistance on an ethical dilemma.