Title: Example of abuse of authority
Course: Code of Ethics and conduct OAS - 3rd Edition > Section: Module 3. Application of the Code of Ethics

Abuse of Authority

With this in mind, consider the following example:

Joffrey is a manager at the GS/OAS. Katryn and Johan are on Joffrey’s team and both share the same office. One morning, Johan presented an important project to government authorities of a Member state. Katryn and Joffrey watched the presentation. After the presentation, Katryn and Johan went back to their office. Shortly after, Joffrey knocked on their door and asked Johan to meet in his office. In Joffrey’s office, Joffrey calmly tells Johan that he was dissatisfied with the presentation. Joffrey explains that the information that Johan presented did not align with what they had previously discussed, and that he did not like the tone that Johan used to answer some of the questions made by attendees. Joffrey further offered Johan tips for improvement.

 ➡️Is Joffrey’s conduct in accordance with the Code of Ethics?

Yes, as a manager Joffrey is free to give feedback to members of his team, so long as his conduct is consistent with the Code of Ethics and all other applicable rules and regulations of the Organization.

💡Rationale: The information provided suggests that Joffrey’s conduct does not breach the Code of Ethics. Providing genuine feedback to a subordinate, colleague, or superior in an appropriate way is not harassment. In this case, it seems that Joffrey is using an adequate tone to give his feedback, in private, without exposing Johan in an unpleasant manner in front of his colleagues. Therefore, Joffrey has acted in accordance with the Code of Ethics. Also notice that Joffrey is using his constructive feedback as an opportunity to facilitate individual professional growth in Johan.