Conflict is part of workplace life. It is unavoidable and inescapable because we all have different expectations and needs. There are numerous well known causes of conflict.

In his 2020 annual report, my predecessor in the Ombud’s office asks a challenging question: “Why are relations with the hierarchy the number one source of conflicts reported to the Ombud’s Office?”

When I took on the role of CERN Ombud, I was not prepared to encounter what I now call the “Janus” effect. Let me give you two examples ...

The 11th Annual Report by the Ombud is now available on CDS at this address and will soon be published on the Ombud’s website, where you can also find all of my predecessors’ reports since

You may know that the CERN Ombud is a member of the International Ombuds Association (IOA).

The respect that others show us, like esteem, is part of our dignity, so it’s no wonder that we’re so taken aback and upset when it’s missing.

On Tuesday, March 8, we celebrated International Women's Day. It is my pleasure to write an article from the Ombud's corner on this occasion.

While the annual performance appraisal interviews are in full swing and thinking about my discussions on the subject with visitors to my office, I feel it’s appropriate to underline the importance of each party being open, honest, respectful and considerate and, in particular, of a clear

I recently took part in a training session, on Zoom – where else these days? – that I found extremely useful and recommend that you all attend as soon as you can. This is all about being an active bystander and contributing to create a culture of respect.

Some visitors to the Ombud’s Office tell me they don’t feel entirely comfortable expressing their ideas, concerns and opinions within their team or to their supervis