UNEP Director Erik Solheim Resigns amid Criticism over Unreasonable Travel Expenses

Erik Solheim, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director has resigned with effect from 22nd November 2018.

Mr. Erik Solheim’s resignation comes shortly after he was handed the final report on the audit of official travel by the Office of Internal Oversight Services.

“I have been and remain committed to doing what I believe to be in the best interest of UN Environment and the mission we are here to achieve,” Mr.Erik stated.

Mr. Erik took to the office of Executive Director of the Nairobi-based UN Environment after Achim Steiner.

He has been accused of unreasonable spending in his travels of just 22 months where he is reported to have spent millions of shillings in travels that were not necessary for the organization.

“Moments ago, with a heavy heart, I informed the Secretary-General (António Guterres) of my decision. He indicated that he will shortly be appointing an Officer in Charge of the Organisation,” Mr.Erik informed the public of his resignation in an emotional statement adding: “It is my most sincere hope that this proves to be in the best interest of UN Environment and the wider UN. Despite the challenges this moment brings, I also hope each of you will take pride in what we have achieved together.”

Erik revealed that in 2017, he heeded to the call of the body’s Secretary General that time had come for dramatic change culturally to take the UN into a new and exciting direction and ensure that the organization remains relevant to address the challenges of the 21st century.

“I wanted UN Environment to be a lead agency for reform, even if it raised some questions. Doing things differently is never easy and I will depart knowing I never spared a moment in my effort to implement this vision and leave UN Environment more capable and more impactful,” he said.

He signed off by acknowledging the team he worked with thanking them for tirelessly working to bring the organization closer to member states and engage on the front lines of the most urgent environmental issues. Erik noted that he was sorry that the journey had come to an end but added that he hoped they would continue to take forward the vision.