by Matthew Russell Lee, Patreon Book Substack
UN GATE, Aug 3 – How corrupt is today's UN under Antonio Guterres? Today's example is UNMIK in Kosovo, about which his spokespeople Stephane Dujarric and Melissa Fleming refuse all Press questions. Inner City Press has asked them, and others, about the newest sex abuse case against the UN. This, from a UN whistleblower sent to Inner City Press:
Dear Matthew Russell Lee,
In Kovovo, the UN Mission UNMIK is currently grappling with a myriad of challenges, particularly exacerbated by severe liquidity issues and ongoing political instability. Employees are bogged down with uncertainty, as short-term contracts leave them with little assurance about their jobs or future prospects within the organization. Amid this backdrop, the departure of SRSG Caroline Ziadeh has left many staff members concerned about the future, as her tenure is marked by significant discontent and poor leadership practices.
The concluding phase of Ziadeh’s term has been particularly troubling for many staff members. Reports suggest a lack of transparency regarding the future of contracts and employment within the mission. As she prepares to leave, there is a pervasive fear that the new appointments and organizational changes are being influenced by favoritism rather than merit, which is unsettling for the workforce. Ziadeh’s leadership style has often been characterized as vindictive and unprofessional. Rather than fostering an inclusive and transparent work environment, her administration is widely perceived as rife with favoritism and disorganization. This has left many disillusioned, fearing that only those aligned with her vision and "favorites" will be granted opportunities in the future.
One prominent figure in this troubling narrative has been Georges Fahkry, an American citizen of Lebanese origin whom Ziadeh brought to UNMIK. Initially appointed as a P2, Fahkry has inexplicably climbed to a P5 position without the requisite experience or knowledge. Critics argue that he has not only been ineffective in his role but has also delegated his responsibilities to UNVs and P3 staff, misrepresenting their work as his own. This culture of incompetence is concerning, particularly as it has led to claims of privilege that undermine team morale. Adding to the concerns regarding Fahkry´s competency is an incident wherein he was involved in a physical altercation with his national colleague, Albatros Rexhaj.
This brawl, which was downplayed (and obviously with zero consequences for Fahkry) by both Fahkry himself and UNMIK leadership, raises serious doubts about his ability to handle conflicts within his office and at workplace. This disregard for appropriate conduct illustrates his lack of competence and inability to lead effectively, as such behavior is unbecoming of someone aspiring for higher responsibilities within the UN.
Speculation has also arisen regarding Fahkry's personal connections, as he allegedly seeks to appoint his wife, Teresa Salvaderotti, to a position within the mission. Such actions raise critical questions about nepotism and integrity within UNMIK's recruitment processes. As a mission that prides itself on professionalism and impartiality, the potential hiring of a spouse by an employee raises ethical concerns that cannot be overlooked.
In her final weeks, Ziadeh has been observed pushing to secure jobs for individuals closely connected to her, one of them Teresa Salvaderotti, and a personal friend, Burc Ceylan. Ceylan has been working in a temporary position since 2023 despite lacking the qualifications necessary for the role, exacerbating concerns about the integrity of the hiring process. Additionally, there are concerns that Fahkry is being positioned as the new Officer-in-Charge (OiC) of the Chief of Staff (CoS) role, particularly following the indefinite sick leave of the current CoS, Stéphane Vaselle. Fahkry's previous appointment and the influence he wields within the mission exemplify the nepotism and favoritism that have marred UNMIK during Ziadeh's tenure.
Moreover, just before her departure, two job openings were created specifically under questionable circumstances: on ein Rule of Law for her favored temporary assistant, Jasmin Hasic and another for the above mentioned wife of Fakhry for a P3 civilian affairs post. All of that occurred right at the last moment, which underscores the apparent prioritization of personal connections over the dire needs and professional integrity of the mission´s staffing protocols. This indisputable favoritism continues even during the liquidity crisis while other dedicated staff members are left with uncertainty…
In a further example of nepotism, Ziadeh has ensured that Fahkry will continue to exert influence over the civilian staffing review by including his close “buddy”, Manuchekhr Adilov, as a member of the task force. Notably, Adilov has been recently redeployed from Pristina to Mitrovica – a journey of only 45 minutes – with full relocation funding. Despite his relocation he is still spending more time in Pristina than Mitrovica. Nevertheless, the relocation costed the mission over 100,000 US dollars, at a time when the mission struggles to offer 12 month contracts to its dedicated staff. This arrangement underscores the insular network or “clan” that Ziadeh has fostered, allowing her friends and allies to secure profitable UN posts. With a focus seemingly on personal gain rather that the mission´s welfare, it raises alarm about the priorities of those involved, making it appear that financial gain is the main objective for this entourage --
Sounds like Guterres.
Guterres, they say, should end censorship. Application was made on June 19, 2025. Watch this site.
***
Your support means a lot. As little as $5 a month helps keep us going and grants you access to exclusive bonus material on our Patreon page. Click here to become a patron.
Feedback: Editorial [at] innercitypress.com
