# data[].attributes.body
Be prepared, simple words, explain what the UN is doing clearly and stay calm.

# data[].attributes.body
RC:
1) Keep it simple and factual - no jargon ("SEA", etc.)
2) Ensure that your body language, facial expressions and tone of voice show that you are taking the issue seriously and with empathy, in line that the tone of the SG's statement.
3) Do not go into details about the staff members' profiles, nationality, or agencies, citing ongoing investigative confidentiality.
4) Explain what the UN is doing to support the victims.
5) Underscore that the UN has since 2017 put in place a robust set of rules to stamp out SEA, including removing perpetrators from contact with their victims, and ensuring that staff who are fired cannot be rehired in another part of the system
6) Do not comment on cases in other countries.
7) Stick to the key messages, but ensure that you are not perceived as parroting them. If pressed, use approved variations on the same messages.

# data[].attributes.body
For the RC:
- The central message should be that everything possible will be done to investigate and bring those responsible to justice.
- It should not refer to other cases.
- Repeat that the UN has zero tolerance for violence, abuse and sexual exploitation.

# data[].attributes.body
For RC

1- Prepare key messages and general script on different topics anticipated to be brought up

2- Share key data that is/could be of interest to the interviewer

3- Share background on the newspaper/interviewer: professional and personal to bring them to use when relevant — for example, if the interviewer has a daughter or a sister, how can that information be leveraged into our advantage while answering (RC: Our mission is ensure that my daughter and your daughter and their friends are protected, regardless of where they are)

4- scenarios of how to handle difficult questions politely

5- How to use the rule of 3 in difficult questions to center the attention about 3 main key messages to be highlighted: 3 main steps, 3 main actions, etc.

6- avoid details, avoid names, avoid sharing uncertain information

7- balance empathy with firmness/strength

# data[].attributes.body
For RC
- use prepared messages, memorize names of people involved, of places, of organizations
- understand the background of the case for the victimes (helps to show compassion).
- dont be afraid of showing emotions that support victimes (breaking voice, tears..)
- stick to concrete data (time, date, people involved)
- mention concrete next steps of action
- visualize the use of the outcome of investigation (purpose)
- what will be consequences expected
- dont go into details, no  intimate detailes of people involved, only unemotional details to not heat up the puplic opinion
- show compassion and empathy with the victimes
- show strength, be determined to support the investigations

# data[].attributes.body
For the RC:
-Have a neutral tone and face
-Do not have papers or sheets at hand as it might send the wrong signal
-Acknowledge the UN policies on this matter but no the actual claims as of yet

# data[].attributes.body
What should the RC say and Don't say:

To remain objective.

To reveal new information, so that the UN gets more credibility and trusty.

To indirectly address rumors and misinformation by stating the right informations.

To concentrate on the key message.

# data[].attributes.body
What would you advise the RC to say in the interview?
That the UN System is investigating this and that appropriate action will be taken.
LTTs agreed with the communications team.
Take responsibility and also give details of the assistance provided by the United Nations.

What would you advise him not to say?
Do not revictimize the victim.
Do not say that it was not the fault of the United Nations.
Do not say that it was the victim's fault.

# data[].attributes.headline
Manuel Mabuiangue; IOM Mozambique; Maputo

# data[].attributes.subject
Manuel Mabuiangue; IOM Mozambique; Maputo

# data[].attributes.body
What would you advise the RC to say in the interview?

·        Bridge answers when possible.

·        Say only has been approved.

What would you advise her not to say?

·        Don’t say “no comment”.

# data[].attributes.body
What to say
1. Acknowledge the gravity of the situation, empathize with all victims and survivors of sexual exploitation and abuse
2. Outline measures UN has put in place for prevention of exploitation and abuse
3. Provide verified facts on the case as well as action taken so far to address the matter.

What not to say
1. Do not provide innacurate statements if unsure of facts/statistics
2. Do not use rude or aggressive tone in the answers. Be firm but polite.

# data[].attributes.body
I would advise her to touch upon the  following:

1. Reiterate that finding truth is of utmost importance to UN
2. Inform on UN zero tolerance policy on such misconducts
3. Appreciate the key role of media and let them know that they will be kept apprised to ensure the public are duly informed accordingly

It is crucial to show empathy with the affected, to support the importance of investigation and finding truth and to prosecute those responsible. It is equally important not to be defensive, reluctant to share information, trying to come up with excuses

# data[].attributes.body
Key messages aligned with the already issued official communications (press release, press briefing and SG statement) will be the basis of all information provided by the RC. Recognize seriousness of the issue, while underlining what is being done and has been done on PSEA. Show empathy and humanity. Importance of how something is said rather than what is said. Avoid being defensive. Clear and concise, as precise as possible. Simple and jargon-free language to not appear condescending.

# data[].attributes.body
I would advice to stick to the key messaging and narrative. To try to bridge all questions asked to bring in the key messaging. To be very concrete and not share additional details.
Be empathetic and relatable. Try to understand and show empathy. Emotions are good.

Avoid getting out of the topic, getting nervous.

# data[].attributes.body
I would advise the RC in her answers to stick to the key message and the big idea that defines our position as the UN.

I would advise the RC not to confirm all allegations but to advise the interviewer that investigations are ongoing, without being defensive.

# data[].attributes.body
-          Advise RC to stick to the prepared key messages/ media lines to take.

-          Refer to UN values and zero tolerance towards sexual exploitation and abuse policy.

-          Refer to due process in the UN system.

-          Refer to likely penalties for those who might be found to have committed any infringements.

-          Advise RC not to be defensive, and to be empathetic.

-          Not to take the blame while explaining unfolding procedures.

-          Not to mention or dwell on names of specific individuals.

# data[].attributes.headline
Sanjeewa Warusawitharana, UNICEF Sri Lanka

# data[].attributes.subject
Sanjeewa Warusawitharana, UNICEF Sri Lanka

# data[].attributes.body
Dos:
- Be natural- Be empathetic
- Solution oriented mindset
- Be consistent
- Bridge any challenging questions/statements

Don'ts
- Don't answer questions outside the scope of the interview
- Don't make excuses
- Don't make promises

# data[].attributes.body
Have a statement if given. Chance in the beginning to provide an overview of the situation

Key messages and talking points

Templates of bridges to bridge difficult question back to key messages

General advice - stay calm, empathetic and stick to key messages

# data[].attributes.body
- Reference to UN values and commitment to 0 tolereance towards sexual harassment/abuse.
- UN is taking investigations very seriously, has appointed xyz as chair of the investigations, who will work closely with the national authorities.
- We are looking forward to understanding what happened, identifying roles and responsibilities.
-  All UN staff undergo a series of training and personal checks to ensure the highest moral standards and behaviours among UN staff
- we also have a whistleblower policy  in place to safeguard the safety of people reporting misconduct
- it is in everybody's interest to give the time it takes to the authorities to investigate what happened

# data[].attributes.body
Dos:
- Make immediate statement
- Be natural
- Be empathetic
- Use simple wordings
Emphasize on your position and be strong in messaging

# data[].attributes.body
The RC should be provided with top lines and key messages they need to convey to media.
Try to stick to one or two top key messages, and use the bridging technique when faced with difficult questions.
Be sincere about the core values of the UN, and that we stand by the victims

Avoid saying personal opinions or give away confidential information. Don't make promises. Don't underestimate or give excuses.

# data[].attributes.body
For the RC, I would suggest him/her to stick with the key messags we are going deliver even if the interviewers try to push him/her to go beyond this issue. I would advise him/her with possible risks if interviewers respond more forcefully to make RC answer the question and not to be panic or 🤬 off but respond him/her sincerely why we care about it and what we are going to do about it.

# data[].attributes.body
What would I advise the RC to say in the interview:

1. Acknowledge that the UN is aware of the allegations and takes them very seriously
2.  Outline that the UN has a zero tolerance policy for for all types of violence
3. Outline any actions that have been taken against the accused ( administrative leave etc.)
4. Do share common approved messages that have been agreed upon during preparation for the interviews
5. Do highlight the work of the UN in addressing issues in relation to abuse and how people are being positively impacted.

What should she not say?

1. Do not provide any names or specifics in relation to the accused
2. Do not be combative with the interviewer

# data[].attributes.body
Do's
Be empathetic
Be consistent
Keep calm and respond to questions
Keep to UN Policy

Don't
Do not argue if there is provocation
Do not disclose confidential information, names
Do not agressively blame or accuse anyone

# data[].attributes.body
RC Prep:
- Research the programme and the interviewer to ascertain their style and tone, in order to brief the RC
- Review key messages with the RC: 2-3 headlines we would like to see in the media
- Prep RC on tough questions:  what we expect, how to answer them and how to pivot/bridge to our key messages
- Prep RC on how to deal with Qs we cannot answer at this point
- Test i/v in front of a camera
- Do say: acknowledge the incidents, express empathy for survivors, reiterate zero-tolerance policy, inform on steps being taken to investigate, to support survivors and to strengthen safeguards
- Do not say: no comment, I don't know, do not speculate

# data[].attributes.body
Below are my suggested example of what is doable:
i. Make sure you understand the context
ii. Check if there are any issues that require urgent attention.
iii. Always keep in my mind that the UN stands with the victims.

Below are my suggested example of Don'ts:
i. Using names of  UN Staff and their affiliates
ii. Offer victims money
iii. Making un-realistic promises to the victims.

# data[].attributes.body
Dos:
- Make immediate statement
- Be natural
- Be empathetic
- Use simple wordings

Don'ts
- Don't remain silent
- Don't wait to face media
- Don't answer questions outside the scope of the interview
- Don't make excuses
- Don't make promises

# data[].attributes.body
Say:
Acknowledge receiving report and inform that as an organization we take the matter seriously and will activate all available mechanisms to investigate the allegations.

Show empathy for people affected and share organizations policy of zero tolerance on such issues.

Be brief and stick to script - don't be distracted or talk too much. Ensure script has some positive examples of UN work in this area in the country concerned.

Don't say:
Personal opinions and anything that will be deemed defensive.

Don't disclose any names even if known to RC.

Don't make any promises yet on compensation and inform that matter will be investigated.

# data[].attributes.body
Dos:
- Acknowledge matter
- Accept that the matter is of wrongdoing.
-UN stands with the victims.

Don'ts:
- Mention UN Staff names.
-Have excuses
- Offer victims money.
- Make promises to the victims that can't be met.

# data[].attributes.body
Dos:
!Be empathetic!
Be consistent (Project confidence during all the interview)
Review key message (3-4 bullet points). And repeat it periodically.
Acknowledge receiving all the reports and informs.
Do not use technical language.

Don'ts:
Using names of UN Staffs and/or affiliates
Make
Denigrate or make disrespectful comments against the State/Local Department of Justice

# data[].attributes.headline
Lenka Ctvrteckova, UNICEF Czech Republic

# data[].attributes.subject
Lenka Ctvrteckova, UNICEF Czech Republic

# data[].attributes.body
My advice to the RC would be to keep calm and be consistent in her claims with those of the UN. She should not delve into too much detail about the investigation but rather express compassion with the victims, emphasize the UN policies and ensure the journalist(s) that the perpetrators will be held accountable. She should not get defensive or lose her temper when the interview is not evolving in a good direction – the best to do in that case is to remain collected and try to bridge to the topic that is more easily handled.

# data[].attributes.body
Dos:
- Be natural
- Be empathetic
- Solution oriented mindset
- Be consistent
- Bridge any challenging questions/statements

Don'ts
- Don't answer questions outside the scope of the interview
- Don't make excuses
- Don't make promises
-

# data[].attributes.body
RC:
1. Provide her the detailed official version to  stick with
2. Tell her to remain natural, calm calculated and give small answers
3. Support the victims and tell UN stands with them and against all the preparators even if they are inside the system
4. Provide evidence of such past incident where UN took action
5. Bridge the difficult question, acknowledge and give an answer reflecting the change we are making and future measures to curb such incidences

# data[].attributes.body
Dos:
1. Express the UN's concern about the allegations and its commitment to ensure impartial investigations and the delivery of justice.
2. Acknowledge that the UN will not protect any staff members if found guilty of said allegations and will work with national authorities to ensure the full application of the law.

Don'ts:
1. Do not make any promises
2. Do not share any personal opinion about the allegations.
3. Do not

# data[].attributes.body
The Dos:
-speak with empathy and acknowledge the allegations
-speak about the immediate actions taken by the organization to ensure transparent and non-bias investigation
-inform about the UN zero policy on SEA and current mechanisms on place to prevent such cases
-point out the progress of the organization made in the past in the prevention of SEA and what would be done to further to strengthen relevant organizations' policies and procedures

# data[].attributes.body
-Speak clearly and slowly
-Begin by acknowledging allegations and dwelling into how UN deals with such issues seriously/giving brief about zero tolerance policy and ongoing investigations
-Acknowledging harm caused to victims, showing empathy to them
-Emphasize role of UN to support people and country
-Emphasize positive aspect of UN work and positive impact of UN work on country
-Dodge misinformation and spread of rumors especially before investigation is over

# data[].attributes.body
Do's

Pace their answers to allow time to give a more wholesome answer.

To note the respect and high curtesy the UN has for the country, its people, and the rule of law.

Not the SG's message and echo his statement.

Sympathise with those affected by the report and how the UN is acting to prevent such from ever occurring.

Provide actionable points on what the UN has done and is doing.

Focus on the success of the UN and the support it continues to provide.

How to recover from an unexpected question.

Don’ts

Not to be defensive or dismissive of questions.

Not to ramble off topic.

Not get flustered by an unexpected question and how to recover.

# data[].attributes.body
What would you advise the RC to say in the interview?
- Express the sympathy and support to victims and echo the words of the secretary general
- Focus on the zero tolerance policy and the fact that the UN is investigating the issue seriously and will get back in 72 hours
- Also highlight the message of the importance of beneficiaries' reporting of the cases and could also be the UN's ways forward in educating the beneficiaries about this issue as well.
What would you advise her not to say?
- Never promise anything beyond the holding lines
- Never give names or identities of those being investigated

# data[].attributes.body
Advice for the RC:
- Briefing with talking points;
- Practice with mock interview before going live;
- Arrive early to feel confortable with the environment;
- Study important details and be prepared for unnexpected questions;
- Remember to show empathy towards victims and display confidence in investigations;
- "What happens now?" - This will be asked. Be prepared to provide meaningful info on what happens next to the accused, accusers and the agencies.

# data[].attributes.body
Focus on body language and tone that should echo both the outrage felt by the audience and sympathy towards victims and a strong commitment to righting the wrongs.

# data[].attributes.body
What to say:

Acknowledge the unfortunate incident that has come to light and reiterate SGs message of zero-tolerance and necessary steps taken towards the perpetrator based on investigation

Empathize with the victims, and highlight message of importance of reporting such SGBV incidents.

Breakdown any important updates with regards to progress of the investigation. If any further info is required on the investigation or info to be provided, how people could be in touch (general number/ email being dedicated for it)

Address any questions/ clarifications with regards to previous incidents that media is drawing parallels with.

Highlight positive impacts/ transformational change that the UN has supported in the country. Show how one-off incidents such as this should not take away from the benefits and support given to vulnerable people.

Highlight preventative measures that are in place and any new refresher courses/ sessions for staff and partners that have been initiated.

Emphasize message of zero-tolerance and the UNs strong stance on matters in relation to this

What not to say:

Do not promise/ commit to a particular date/ milestone unless the organization is 100% sure of it being achieved on said date/time period

Do not re-victimize those involved in the incident, given it is an ongoing investigation

Do not give personal opinions or stance. RC is representing the organization as a whole (including the 3 agencies involved)

Do not get muddled or frazzled by difficult questions. Patience is key in high-stress situations

Do not be unprepared, seem unsure of what you are saying or be dismissive of the situation. Make sure to take the interview seriously

# data[].attributes.body
- Make sure to acknowledge his/her understanding of the situation and the harm that was caused; the situation of the victims. Condemn all forms of SEA.
- Explain what is being done in terms of investigation and its consequences
- Focus on preventive measures that are in place and key lessons learned
- Finish by hilighting previous positive achievements in Tonga

# data[].attributes.body
Say:
- express empathy and concern;
- say that allegations are taken seriously and investigation is ongoing;
- be transparent and frank about the details, especially those that have already been known to the public;
- cooperate and express readiness to be transparent

Not to say:
- do not attribute guilt (as the investigation is still ongoing)
- do not take defensive or aggresive position
- do not overshare
- do not lose temper or show impatience, anger

# data[].attributes.body
- Condemn all kinds of SEA
-Reiterate sympathy and support to victims
-Remind the no SEA policy of UN
-Say and investigation is underway. It will allow us have a clear idea of what happened then decision and action will be taken.
DONT'S
Give names, agencies, and citizenship of accused agents

# data[].attributes.body
I would advise the RC to
-Express sympathy for victims
-State unequivocally the UN's position on PSEA
-Pledge UN's support in investigation and getting help for those affected.

I will advise her not to:
-Delve into precedents
-Stay on the issue

# data[].attributes.headline
Sandra Black, Communications Consultant, Maputo, Mozambique

# data[].attributes.subject
Sandra Black, Communications Consultant, Maputo, Mozambique

# data[].attributes.body
RC to state in interview:

- UN expresses empathy with the individuals affected

- investigation is underway

- not possible to provide full details on situation in order to protect the identify of the affected

- UN to support those affected through available means (psychosocial support, etc.)

- immediate action will be taken to address the situation (and explain what this entails - dismissal, repatriation, legal action, role of local / national authorities).
- Recognize accusation and explain that UN will provide more information as it becomes available

Not to say:
- Accept / attribute guilt (as investigation not yet complete)
- Do not share names / details of the case

# data[].attributes.body
My advice is to be as empathetic as ever to issues of sexual abuse and 🤬. To read on the matter and rehearse.

# data[].attributes.body
I would advise the RC to acknowledge the victims and their families, show respect for the host countries cultural, values and laws, and ensure solidarity with the victims.

Do not question the validity of the victims story, police investigation or laws.

I would advise the RC to echo the SGs statement on the crisis, talk about UN approach on the issue, stick to the agreed key messaging /talking points and maintain the importance of protecting the human rights of the victims. discuss the UN referral system where it ensure Sexual violence does not happen in the future and if it does happen, there are mechanism in place to protect victims. The RC can highlight the support available for Victims.

Do not go off script and claim false claims, be weary what you are saying and always keep to the talking points or repeat key messaging.

Practice practice practice!  Bridging, or redirection of the questions, always repeat key messages.

Do not make promises on compensation or  actions that are not cleared or agreed upon.

Be calm, keep eye contact when asked difficult questions, Be honest and show empathy to the victims and their families  be friendly while being strong and relaxed.

Do not get tense, Do not get defensive, or  dodge questions.

Breath in between line, speak about facts of investigation without revealing names, use bridging language ( I will provide some in the talking points) and always think of the UN's code conduct, SEA and the Victims.

# data[].attributes.body
What would you advise the RC to say in the interview? What would you advise her not to say?
1. Body language will be keep  in this interview, to pause when talking and eye contact.
2. Answer what you are asked avoid long answers ( Bridging will be important like says ... I think at  this point the most important thing is to  make sure that the victims are in a safe place and they are... or what we need to focus on is that the investigation is on going.
3. If ambushed by the journalist with a question that you can't answer we go back to the key messages.
4. We will have 3 key message that we will stick to nomatter how had the questions are.
5. Be inline with what the secretary general has said already, avoid off the cuff statements.
6. Don't say a lot of things because  the devil is in the detail .

# data[].attributes.body
Advise the RC to build the narrative around the agreed upon messaging/talking points. To be honest and open and keep in mind that while the media will bombard with difficult questions, to maintain a calm, relaxed image and answer honestly, truthfully and slowly. To show empathy and concern for the survivors.

To not go on the defensive, attempt to hedge/dodge answers, use technical language and acronyms, lose temper or cool, make tall/false claims.

# data[].attributes.body
·       Ask the RC to echo the SG's message by stressing that there are no exceptions to zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse by UN personnel and implementing partners.

·       Ensure the RC uses the appropriate emotional tone and body language when conveying his/her messages.

·       Advise the RC to start with an opening statement that acknowledges the victims and to assure that investigation is underway.

·       Remind the RC NOT to share any personal details on the staff being investigated.
·   Remind the RC to respect the agreed-upon script with the UNCT

·       Remind the RC not to be defensive to the media’s questions. After all, their right and duty are to ask challenging and tough questions.

·       Stress that the UN has policies in place and regular awareness-raising training being held for UN Personnel and implementing partners, particularly humanitarian partners, to prevent sexual abuse and misconduct. Also mention that the UN has appropriate referral mechanisms that would help ensure no such cases of SEA would happen in the future.

·       Survivors and victims should be at the center of the RC messages, i.e. the RC must put the victims first in his/her messaging. The RC can highlight here the UN’s support to victims and survivors, with regards to providing immediate services such as legal aid, psychological support, maybe shelter and basic assistance, medical care etc.

# data[].attributes.body
To do: Echo the key messages of the Secretary General, particularly the official stance taken in public already and emphasize a whole of UN Approach
Not to: Go off script to make statements which the SG, and the UNCT, have not already agreed upon

To do: Practice redirection of questions in the case where the questions may be off topic or not being able to answer to instead solidify key messages
Not to: Try to address the issues by making any promises which on action will be taken, which can be brought up later if the situation where to change

To do: Be made aware of the most recent figures and messaging possible
Not to: Bring up any figures which she is not sure of

To do: Ensure to express solidarity with the victims first and foremost
Not to: Do not question the validity of the victim's account

# data[].attributes.body
SAY
Stay consistent with the key messages and manage to pass them during the interview. (Empathy for the victims, what kind of support the UN is providing to the victims , serioulsy looking into the allegation, zero tolerance. Some data about the success of the UN SEA policy. explain that cases are rising not because of an increase of SEA but are due too UN strong willing of being transparent and the confidence of the victims that their claims will be taken serioulsy.
Stay calm, stay focus, speak clearly with short sentences. .

Don't say
Don't disclose the name of victims or perpetrators.
Don't disclose victims location (protection)
Don't imply that the staff will be prosecuted as the invistigation is still ongoing and they are innocent until proved otherwise
Never use acronyms or UN jargon (SEA... for example)

# data[].attributes.body
I would recommend to express compassion for all alleged victims without admitting guilt. Use her role as a WOMAN, make herself relatable

UN SG is looking into this. UN takes it very seriously. Investigation already started , closely followed by UN SG and top management & results will be made public . the UN leads by example in terms of accountability & transparency.

Distance UN work in the country from this scandal highlighting its positive impact through facts/stories.

Advise RC not to say:

No need to make excuses or apologies as this is not the fault of the UN but of those who committed the abuse

# data[].attributes.body
I would like to prepare a talking points for the RC:
- framework/ethics/principles of UNs regarding to the subject;
- position of the UNs toward the sexual
- provide the RC the relevant updated information/fact of the case;
- update/current action taken and commitment to solve the case in the fair, unbias basis according to the laws, UNs rule and regulation.

# data[].attributes.body
Fully aware of the gravity of accusations of sexual abuse and exploitation and the reputational risk this could have on the UN, I would advise the RC to stick to the key messages and facts that have been presented, including rising on the message by the Secretary-General, express in clear and concise terms the steps the UN will take to address the matter and show empathy to the survivors. I would advise the RC to avoid being aggressive or defensive, reduce denial or any attempts to minimize the situation.

# data[].attributes.body
I would advise the RC to stick to the key messages and facts and to be clear, concise and empathetic. Show that we are taking the situation seriously. Don’t get aggressive or defensive, deny/minimize the situation or share her personal opinions on the issue.

# data[].attributes.body
Do: say the facts, show compassion, be clear and concise, show support for rectifying the situation, clearly outline the actions that will be taken.

Dont: be defensive, share identifiable information of the people involved, minimize the issue.

# data[].attributes.body
To say:

Steps being taken in the investigation.

Institutional efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future. Zero tolerance policy.

Support to the victims and their families.

No to say:

ID of the UN personelle or the victims.

Underestimating the abuse and similar acts.

# data[].attributes.body
I would adivise the RC to answer only what was asked, in a clear and concise way, often repeating the SG message that everything is being investigated and showing empathy to the victms.

# data[].attributes.body
I would advise the RC to stick to the standard messaging agreed upon by the 3 agencies involved also, reinforce that the UN takes these allegations seriously, that the UN will fairly and transparently conduct an investigation and express compassion towards the victims. And to also outline the processes in place to deal with such allegations and to emphasize that the UN has a zero-tolerance policy.

What I would advise the RC to not say is respond to examples of similar incidences from the past, defend the accused or shift blame. I would also advice the RC to not give any details out about the identify of the accused or the stage that the investigation is currently in. And to also not comment on any specific agency involved.

# data[].attributes.body
The core message: the UN will be honest, transparent, and accountable in the investigation and handling of these allegations.
I would recommend to express compassion for all alleged victims without admitting guilt and keep a sober tone, never defensive.
share the steps taken to identify and address sexual exploitation. Share the procedures for responding to such cases.
Be prepared for questions about past UN sexual abuse scandals.

# data[].attributes.body
* Do not try to minimize the situation
*Always show the UN will to be zero tolerant about sexual abuse thought past and concrete examples
*Do not take it personal and be professional
*Show that UN is really working towards the issue as stated by the Secretary General

# data[].attributes.body
What to say and not say:
-Do not go outside the key messages agreed upon by the UNCT.
-Do not give names or information about the persons being investigated.
-Do not say things that could lead to speculation. Messages should be clear and direct.
-Always speak of presumption of innocence because the case is under investigation.
-Mention the victims repeating the same message of the GS.
-Explain the UN protocols against sexual abuse.
-Reiterate the UN's intention to bring the investigation to a conclusion and take appropriate action.

# data[].attributes.body
Advise the RC to say :

- Show compassion and empathy wit victims & families
- Reassert that the UN Is there and everywhere to serve people , improve their daily life & whoever behaves wrongly doesn't represent the UN but only himself and should be held accountable
- Investigation already started , are closely followed by UN SG and top management & results will be made public . the UN leads by example in terms of accountability & transparency.

Advise RC not to say:

- No need to make excuses or apologies as this is not the fault of the UN but of those who committed the abuse
- Not to put him/herself in position of justification

# data[].attributes.body
The Do's

Indicate that the matter is being addressed internally.

The UN does not condone any form of GBV, including staff members.

Empathise with the affected persons.

Keep to the main talking points.

Promise to offer an update once investigation is completed.

The Dont's

The RC should not be angry.

Do not trivialize the matter.

No names of UN Staff shoulf be mentioned

# data[].attributes.headline
Ekaterina Polishchuk, UN Volunteers Europe CIS

# data[].attributes.subject
Ekaterina Polishchuk, UN Volunteers Europe CIS

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To RC: -approved talking points, -training on tone of voice and overall look and feel, - training on bridging, -rehearse with her

To say -clear steps that investigation consists of, what is punishment if case if proved, -what support is given to victims; -what is done in UN to prevent such cases

Not to say -any justification of sexual abuse as human mistakes, -no reference to any passed cases and similar situations, -no information that is not investigated and approved yet, -no hypothetical scenarios, -no personal thoughts or ideas around the topic or UN

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I would advice the RC to focus on the current case, without disclosing confidential information, but reassuring the public opinion of the UN´s determination to investigate and punish who is found guilty. Also I would recommend to talk about the UN´s work in recent years to fight against sexual abuse and zero tolerance issue, to show that the current UN has nothing to do with what happened in the past.

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I'd advise the RC to deliver a message that reflects compassion and assertiveness.

It should show the Organization's support to all victims, zero tolerance against such acts, commitment to investigate what's happened and take prompt action.

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I would reiterate that we doing everything that it is in our hands and that we are waiting for the results of the investigation. I would firmly state that perpetrators will be held accountable and that there is zero tolerance for sexual abuse at the UN. I would show empathy towards the victims, their families and communities.

I would not speculate into hypothetical scenarios and give false expectations.

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What would you advise the RC to say in the interview?

To highlight that:

it is a very serious issue,

we support the victims

the measures to confirm the information have been already taken

The Organisation will be the first to take legal action if confirm.

What would you advise her not to say?

Not to say statements similar to “the Organisation is made by humans and humans make mistakes”

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I would advise the RC not to get bogged down with specifics about the case 'we are still investigating' and reiterate that zero tolerance and improved investigation of cases and also highlight the support provided to the victims.

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Responding without verified basic information and data would be a big mistake and risk. Thanks.

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Will seize the course advices to tell the RC to take breaths before and during answers, take pauses before responding, use bridging when necessary, make simple and short sentences in order not to confuse the public.
Of course a rehearsal would be appreciated at her convenience.

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First : it is necessary to talk to the interviewer in advance and ask for the list of questions he/she is going to ask during the interview.

Second : it would be good to get familiarized yourself with the previous works and interviews by this journalist to better understand her approach and style.

Third : The RC must have rehearse with Comms before the interview and simulate possible provocative questions and together elaborate good answers so the RC would handle difficult and/or provocative questions.

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For the RC I would advise her to ensure that she shows compassion and concern for any alleged victims. In order to counter the impunity narrative in the media, she should be firm in the sanctions for any personnel who has committed any violation and restitution to any victims. She should not provide any information on the identities of the alleged victims or perpetrators. She should also provide any recent examples of how the UN has taken appropriate measures to punish staff members involved in these types of actions.

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Agnes Kante, UNAIDS Liaison Office, Addis Ababa

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Agnes Kante, UNAIDS Liaison Office, Addis Ababa

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Advice to the RC about the interview: relaxing and breathing techniques prior to the interview, watch the style, tone and content. Read and familiarize yourself with key messages and answers ahead. Be concise, precise and clear. Take deep breathers/pause as often as needed. Prep well ahead to answer tough questions with answers (bridging techniques). Avoid abstractions - provide concrete examples and information.

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Advise RC:-
I advise RC to be relaxed and be herself in the interview with nothing extra and nothing less.
Listen the questions carefully and respond to the questions in systematic and clear manner. Respond to tough questions in in a cool and calm manner and take note of questions which needs further clarification and details at a later stage after the interview.

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Do say: we are waiting for the results of the investigation; if found guilty, perpetrators will be held accountable; there is zero tolerance for sexual abuse at the UN; the majority of our staff are decent and hard working people; we feel the pain of those abused and we will provide reparations.

Do not: be combative or get angry; engage into hypothetical scenarios; claim that the UN is perfect.

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I would suggest that the RC clearly outlines the support mechanisms and systems that the UN has in place for victims, whistleblowers and others who step forward and may need support. I would ask her to emphasise that the UN has 0 tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, including outside of working hours, and that they will personally see that this matter is fully investigated. I'd advise the RC NOT to defend the staff that have been accused nor to dismiss the allegations and blame the victims.

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I would ask the RC not to comment on cases and allegations from the past 20 years, saying that she's not in the best position to discuss those wrongdoings and talk only about the current investigation.

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The RC must show empathy for the victims but also sincerity throughout the interview. She must re-express that the UN has zero-tolerance against sexual exploitation and that if found guilty, the UN staff members accused of misconduct will be punished and sentenced.

The RC should not give too much information before the investigations are concluded. She should also make sure that the information given to the journalists is consistent with what has been said publicly by other UN officials about this case.

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Avise the RC to say/not to say.
The RC must have all the context of what happened.
To show empathy with the victims, to reinforce that they reject these acts and that they will go to the last consequences with the officials.
Not to mention the identities of the officials, not to justify any action.