How we investigate
OII investigations are intended to establish the facts and circumstances concerning alleged misconduct so the responsible IMF officials may determine whether misconduct has been committed and if so, what, if any, disciplinary or other remedial action is appropriate.
OII gathers and reviews any evidence concerning the allegations of misconduct and interviews possible witnesses or others who may be in position to provide relevant information. All aspects of OII’s investigations are conducted discreetly, with due regard for preserving the privacy of those involved. Persons interviewed by OII and others who may be called upon to assist the investigation are under a duty of confidentiality and cannot disclose the contents of their interviews or the nature of their participation to others.
OII has direct access to all IMF employees and to all IMF records relevant to matters under investigation. IMF employees, including an employee who is the subject of an investigation, have a duty to cooperate and provide requested information in a timely manner. IMF employees also have a duty not to interfere with the conduct of an investigation.
Upon completion of an investigation, OII submits its factual findings to the responsible IMF official, including conclusions about whether the allegations of misconduct have been substantiated, or whether the evidence exonerates the subject or is insufficient to make a finding. It is up to the responsible IMF official, and not OII, to determine whether misconduct occurred and, if so, any disciplinary measure(s) to be imposed.
