Rasna Warah’s book shines light on the problem with the UN
Rasna Warah’s book UNsilenced: Unmasking the United Nations contains a litany of such horrifying episodes, which only a former UN insider could have so succinctly catalogued. PHOTO | NATION
In typical Warah fashion, in her rather cleverly titled book, she does not beat about the bush regarding her mission, which is aptly explained by the book’s sub-title: ‘Unmasking the United Nations’ culture of cover-ups, corruption and impunity.’
Warah’s narrative focuses on the carefully covered-up dry rot and scandals that reside within the corridors of the United Nations, and the fate of the men and women — usually referred to as whistleblowers — who from time to time attempt to reveal them.
Citing specific cases of UN wrongdoing around the world, Warah once in a while pauses to, for instance, point out the impunity that accompanies the sexual exploitation of women and children.
Over the past couple of years, serious scandals have erupted in the international media relating to wrongdoing, serious corruption and even sexual misconduct in such international organisations as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
At the heart of the storm as these scandals unfolded were top figures like Paul Wolfowitz, who was at one time the World Bank’s president, but who was forced to resign after it was revealed that he had become involved in many malpractices, including barely veiled favouritism when it came to dishing out top positions at the organisation.
