STARTS***

In response to recent articles published by the health news portal, Swasthya Live, regarding the implementation of the Strengthening health resilience in Nepal: HIV, TB and Malaria project (The Global Fund project/UNDP), UNDP Nepal’s recruitment standard and processes as well as the integrity of its personnel, UNDP Nepal notes inaccuracies and would like to issue the following clarifications:  

UNDP took on the role of co-Principal Recipient of the Global Fund programme in February 2025, and since then all sub-recipients have been contracted and are actively delivering services to communities. At the same time, the programme's complex environment has given rise to early-stage procurement and operational challenges. These are being addressed in close coordination with the Ministry of Health and Population, civil society, and health sector partners.

UNDP has serious concerns over the misleading public accusations against the integrity and competency of its personnel. UNDP’s recruitment standards are grounded in the principles of transparency, competition, objectivity, diversity, and accountability. All recruitment processes to the mentioned programme have been conducted according to such standards.

Unchecked and unsubstantiated accusations can unfairly tarnish the reputation and well-being of individuals who dedicate themselves to supporting the development aspirations of the people we serve, including Nepal’s health priorities.

UNDP values the media’s critical role in fostering transparency and welcomes evidence-based reporting. UNDP also encourages anyone with credible information or evidence of concerns to utilize its official reporting mechanisms, which maintain confidentiality, impartiality, and due process for all parties (more details available here). 

UNDP remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical governance. We are proud to contribute to strengthening Nepal’s health systems, with an unwavering focus on reaching the most vulnerable populations and upholding the highest standards of integrity.  

ENDS***