The Structure and Operation of the Secretariat. Over time, there is a case for the Secretariat assuming a significantly leaner shape in terms of its permanent staff, with a much higher proportion of personnel being seconded from governments, universities, non-government and other multilateral organizations for limited periods of, say, two to four years. Needs and cultural environments vary enormously from region to region, and this must be reflected in substantial resources being devoted to activities away from Headquarters. There is a real question as to whether the present distribution of regional and national field offices involves the best possible use of scarce resources. Relations between the Director General and Executive Board.
Decisive leadership is never incompatible with genuine consultation.
But this will require commitment, clear thinking and creativity, and leadership which is capable of mobilizing support and delivering results both outside and inside the organization. No-one bears more immediate responsibility for providing that leadership, and renewing and revitalizing one of the world's great organizations, than the new Director General.