Investigation

Investigations examine possible wrongdoing and identify vulnerable areas where fraudulent activity might occur. Investigations are carried out in accordance with the Uniform Guidelines for Investigations [PDF] and the Investigation Policy [PDF].
The Investigation Manual [PDF] outlines techniques, methods and procedures followed.

Key framework documents

  • Internal Oversight Charter [PDF]
  • Investigation Policy [PDF]
  • Uniform Guidelines for Investigations [PDF]
  • Investigation Manual [PDF]

Advantages of conducting investigations

Integrity protection

Through objective investigations, IOD protects organizational integrity, promoting transparency, compliance, and trust, fostering a culture of accountability and integrity.

Fraud prevention

Through rigorous investigations, IOD strengthens fraud prevention, enforcing compliance, and promoting ethical practices, safeguarding organizational resources and reputation.

Confidentiality

IOD investigations uphold strict confidentiality, safeguarding sensitive information, protecting whistleblowers, and ensuring fairness throughout the investigative process.

Report wrongdoing

In accordance with the WIPO Internal Oversight Charter [PDF], the Director of the Internal Oversight Division (IOD) may receive complaints or information concerning suspected wrongdoing, misconduct, or irregularities including but not limited to fraud and corruption, waste, abuse of privileges and immunities, abuse of authority, harassment, and other violations of WIPO Regulations and Rules in administrative, personnel and other matters or other irregular activities relevant to the mandate of the Director of the IOD.
Once an allegation is received, it is registered and evaluated to determine whether an investigation is warranted. If an investigation is needed, it will be conducted in compliance with WIPO Internal Oversight Charter and with the above-mentioned Guidelines and Manual.

Report suspected wrongdoing

SpeakUp® is an external, independent platform to report suspected wrongdoing and communicate with investigators in a secure, anonymous manner. Find out more information about SpeakUp®.

Frequently asked questions

Our Frequently Asked Questions page for investigations provides clear, accessible answers to common queries—such as what can be reported, how investigations are conducted, and what protections are in place for those who come forward. To learn more, we invite you to explore the FAQs on investigations and better understand how the Investigation Function works to safeguard trust within our organization.

Management implication reports (MIR)

Title Documents Date
MIR on obligations applying to staff members with regard to residence in the duty station area Report  January 19, 2023
MIR on Information contained in Patentscope Website Report  September 3, 2021
MIR on personal data and privacy issues concerning WIPO e-mails to external users Report  June 1, 2021
MIR on information transmitted to the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM) Report  August 25, 2020
MIR on risks relating to business dealings with former employees Report  September 19, 2019
MIR on Customer Service System Report  June 27, 2019
MIR on ex officio corrections to the Madrid Registry Report  February 12, 2019