Title: Limitations on External Disclosure of Opinions
Course: Code of Ethics and conduct OAS - 3rd Edition > Section: Module 3. Application of the Code of Ethics

You are invited to deliver a talk at a university on a topic related to your work at the GS/OAS. Or a journalist in your home country asks to interview you. Can you do it?

According to the Code of Ethics:

“Unless otherwise provide in their job descriptions or contracts, or otherwise authorized by the Secretary General, Staff Members and Other Service Providers must not act or express themselves publicly in any way that would be reasonable certainty adversely affect the OAS, GS/OAS, Member States, or the independence of the OAS. Public expression would include for example, speaking to media outlets, delivering speeches, taking part in productions, or writing articles, books or on blogs or other internet postings.”

Moreover, if the activity is approved, you must make clear that the views expressed are your own and not necessarily those of the Organization.

Remember. Any time you express yourself publicly outside of your duties/employment, you must seek authorization from the Secretary General through the Department of Human Resources.