How to take smart risks

Discover this past Commons event, held in collaboration with the Internal Audit Division, Office of Internal Oversight Services, featured Mr. Mika Tapio, Service Chief, UNHCR Audit Service, Internal Audit Division, Office of Internal Oversight Services, as the key speaker.

The session delved into the exploration and questioning of risk-taking within the UN system. The discussion revolved around the idea of how taking more risks in decision-making could support the development of an agile workforce and organization. The session emphasized the crucial balance between the need for risk-taking and the point where risks may outweigh the rewards.

Addressing the concept of "risk appetite," the session highlighted the importance of setting this at various levels, including the overall governance level, organizational level, and operational level. The discussion also touched upon the UN's regulatory framework, acknowledging its historically low risk appetite. While simplifying and streamlining this framework could foster a more agile and risk-taking environment, it was underscored that this should be complemented by a prepared and aware workforce capable of taking risks in an intelligent, informed, and accountable manner.

Participating in this session:

Speaker

Mr. Mika TAPIO, Service Chief, UNHCR Audit Service, Internal Audit Division, Office of Internal Oversight Services. 

Moderator

Mr. Francesco PISANO, Director, UN Library Geneva