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Statement
UNICEF statement on the resignation of Dietrich Garlichs and the ongoing debate about the German National Committee
NEW YORK, 8 February 2008 - Mr. Dietrich Garlichs has resigned his post as Executive Director of the German National Committee. UNICEF would like to recognize his invaluable contribution to the work of the organization over the past 18 years.To assist the German National Committee for UNICEF to make a smooth transition, a senior official, Mr. Philip O’Brien, UNICEF's Director, Private Fundraising and Partnerships, will travel to Germany within the next week to meet with all concerned and provide support and advice.
UNICEF thanks the German people for the strong support they have provided for its work for children over many years, and hopes that this support will continue as UNICEF and its National Committee work together to build stronger systems for the management of funds entrusted to it.
Background:
A KPMG examination of the German National Committee for UNICEF’s operations has refuted damaging public accusations against the National Committee and its management.
However it also identified problems in internal business processes that must be addressed. Significant steps have subsequently been taken by the Board to address the KPMG recommendations, including the presentation of a road map aimed at increasing the transparency of all its financial transactions.
