UNITED NATIONS          NATIONS UNIES

    UNTAET  

 United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor

Headquarters Peacekeeping Force

CODE OF CONDUCT  

FOR PEACEKEEPING FORCES

The Peacekeeping Forces in East Timor have embodied the aspirations of all the people of the world for peace.  In this context the United Nations Charter requires that all personnel must maintain the highest standards of integrity and conduct.  We, as peace-keepers, represent the United Nations and are present in East Timor to help it recover from the trauma of a conflict.  As a result we must be prepared to accept the special constraints under the circumstances of East Timor in order to do the work and to pursue the ideals of the United Nations.  This code of conduct, complied with the Guidelines for Forces Undertaking United Nations Peacekeeping Operations as the fundamental basis, specifies the basic rule for all military personnel to observe.

1.      Remember at all times expectations of the local population will be high and your actions, behavior and speech will be closely monitored.  Be aware of how your acts are perceived.   This is as important as how they are intended.  Conduct deemed to be inappropriate could seriously damage the mission and the reputation of the PKF.

2.      Respect the local culture, traditions, customs and practices. PKF members should keep in mind the importance of respecting the customs and practices of East Timor, as well as of neighboring states.  The general rules for doing that are :

1. Show the particular respect to political leaders, church leaders, community leaders and the elderly.

2. Ask permission before taking photographs.

3. Tipping is not necessary.

4. Avoid using the First (Christian) name of someone, in particular if they are of a certain age, until familiarity is clearly established.

5. Do not speak with a raised voice.

3.      Treat the all local inhabitants with the utmost courtesy, respect and consideration. You are here as a guest to help them and in so doing will be welcomed with admiration. Neither solicit nor accept any material reward, honor or gift.

4.      Do not indulge in immoral acts of sexual , physical or psychological abuse or exploitation of the local population or United Nations staff, especially women and children.

1. With regard to inter-action between foreign men and Timorese women, it is inappropriate for the male to invite the female, particularly young women, to activities outside the office unless they are chaperoned by Timorese men.

2. Shorts and T-shirts, or sleeveless tops are not appropriate at the office or informal meetings outside the office.

3. Women should not wear skirts that are shorter than  knee length.

5.      Respect and regard the human rights of all. Support and aid the infirm, sick and weak. Do not act in revenge or with malice, in particular when dealing with detainees or people in your custody.

6.      Properly care for and account for all United Nations money, vehicles, equipment and property assigned to you and do not trade or barter with them to seek personal benefits.

7.      Do not engage in excessive consumption of alcohol or traffic in drugs.

1. The possession, sale or use of controlled drugs is strictly forbidden. UNTAET takes a serious view of any illegal involvement with drugs. Any use of possession of illegal drugs will result in the immediate repatriation of the individual.

2. Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages may cause serious accidents or other incidents. PKF personnel should not exceed the acceptable limit of consuming alcoholic beverages. Personnel are to limit their alcohol consumption to 2 cans of beer (or equivalent) per day.  However, contingent commanders can use their discretion to wave this restriction during official functions as determined by FC or NCCs.  Loud, lewd or drunken behavior will not be acceptable at any time.

8.      Show respect for and promote the environment including the flora and fauna.

1. Do not litter.

2. Do not remove coral from the sea.

3. Do not engage in shooting or hunting of any sort.

4. Do not take any sort of tropical plant, which is mostly private property.

9.      The majority of East Timorese are devout Roman Catholics.

1. Loud noises outside churches during mass are inappropriate.

2. If attending mass, more formal dress is appropriate.  Sleeveless shirts or shorts should not be worn.

3. During Lent (8 March~23 April) it is inappropriate to ear or drink in public places.

4. Be aware of Holy days : Easter days, the day of the dead (1 November)

5. Drive slowly if you encounter funeral processions.

6. Shoe special respect to those in mourning, which can last for up to a year.  It is inappropriate to invite those in mourning to social events.

10.  Exercise the utmost discretion in handling confidential information and matters of official business that can put lives into danger or soil the image of the United Nations.

Approved by

Brig. Gen. Haingkeun Kwon

Chief of Staff

Ext. 4901