unrwa usa holds its employees to the highest ethical standards

Conflict of Interest Policy

UNRWA USA encourages all employees to exercises good judgment and the highest ethical standards in their job responsibilities. Every employee must avoid any activity, business interest, or other situation which could be construed either as in conflict with the organizationโ€™s best interests or as an interference with the employeeโ€™s duty to serve the organization to the best of his or her ability.

More specifically, employees should avoid any action that might result in or create the appearance of:

  • Using their positions for personal gain (whether their own or othersโ€™ with whom they are associated) in a personal, family or business relationship.

  • Giving preferential treatment to any person.

  • Making work-related decisions that affect, involve, or bind UNRWA USA and our subsidiaries/affiliates outside of official channels or prescribed procedures.

  • Affecting adversely the confidence of our members, vendors, or associates in the integrity of UNRWA USA or our operations.


It is important to note that employee activities of a personal nature, carried out without the use of UNRWA USAโ€™s facilities or resources and on the employeeโ€™s own time, are not activities covered by this policy. Those activities, however, should neither involve a conflict of interest as defined by this policy, nor impair an employeeโ€™s ability to contribute effectively to assigned job-related duties.

When considering taking on an additional position outside the office, including paid positions, volunteer work, or joining the board of a different organization, this must be disclosed to the Executive Director. The Executive Director, or his or her authorized representative, will review all such matters on a case-by-case basis. If after review, it is determined that a conflict of interest exists, UNRWA USA may request all participation in the outside activity cease immediately. Conflicts of interest, depending on the nature and severity of the conflict, may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.