How We Work
UNDP operates in the DPRK with limited resources in an environment constrained by the unique situation on the Korean peninsula. With due consideration for the complexity and constraints of the external political environment, such as relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions, we follow a people-centred approach that directly addresses the needs of the most vulnerable: young children, new mothers, adolescents, the elderly and households in remote and underserved areas.
All our interventions are consistent with supporting sustainable human development objectives. With our national counterparts we negotiate a conducive development environment for the application of internationally accepted development practices, and thereby expand the scope of international engagement.
We work under a stringent set of rules and regulations, and with a sharpened focus on results-based management, reporting, monitoring and evaluation. Here are some of the policies and procedures that govern our work:
Project approvals
On an exceptional basis, all projects are to be approved by UNDP Headquarters.
All projects are executed by a UN agency or UNDP itself. We will only implement projects that operate in areas where UNDP personnel have physical access to verify the results.
Monitoring and evaluation
All programs are monitored and evaluated by international staff. Monitoring and evaluation practices include tripartite review meetings, regular field visits to project sites, adequate project reporting, mid and end of term evaluations, and strengthened and special monitoring as required.
Human resources
UNDP is following the recommendations by the Nemeth Panel. Human Resources practices are being followed in terms of national staff being recruited on the basis of the best qualifications available, following the interviewing of multiple candidates for each position, and on the basis of national staff signing on as individuals and being paid directly by UNDP in keeping with international practice.
Financial controls and procurement
A new Financial Internal Control Framework which is more stringent has been developed specifically for UNDP operations in the DPRK, and an International Finance Specialist has been posted to the Country Office.
- UNDP will not make any cash advances to the government.
- All local payments will be in Korean won.
- Special attention will be given to equipment to ensure that procurement is in compliance with UN rules and regulations and export licenses and that no equipment will be used for dual-use purposes.
- Procurement will be reviewed by the Procurement Support Office and the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific at Headquarters, which will also conduct regular, in-depth country scans.
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