UNITED NATIONS
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NATIONS UNIES
TRUCE SUPERVISION ORGANIZATION
NOTES FOR THE GUIDANCE OF
UNITED NATIONS
MILITARY OBSERVERS
ON APPOINTMENT
Department of Peacekeeping Operations
United Nations, New York
UNTSO
January 2012
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS ......................................................................................................................................... 2 PREFACE ............................................................................................................................................ 4 PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................................ 4 GENERAL BACKGROUND .................................................................................................................. 5 History and Establishment of UNTSO ........................................................................................... 5 Organisation .................................................................................................................................. 8 Duty Stations ................................................................................................................................. 8 THE UN MILITARY OBSERVER .......................................................................................................... 9 Definition ....................................................................................................................................... 9 Conduct and Performance............................................................................................................. 9 Privileges and Immunities ........................................................................................................... 10 Financial Liabilities ...................................................................................................................... 10 Qualifications ............................................................................................................................... 10 Desirable qualifications ............................................................................................................... 11 DEPLOYMENT TO UNTSO AND INDUCTION TRAINING ................................................................ 11 SELECTION, POSTING, TRANSFER, STAFF ASSIGNMENTS, DURATION AND EXTENSION OF
TOUR OF DUTY ................................................................................................................................ 13 Selection ..................................................................................................................................... 13 Posting ........................................................................................................................................ 13 Transfer ....................................................................................................................................... 13 Staff Appointments ...................................................................................................................... 13 Duration and Extension of Tour of Duty....................................................................................... 14 Administrative Matters ................................................................................................................. 14 DUTY SCHEDULE, LEAVE, ANNUAL LEAVE, WEEKENDS, UNTSO HOLIDAYS, DAYS OFF,
SPECIAL LEAVE AND SICK LEAVE ................................................................................................. 14 General ....................................................................................................................................... 14 Hours of Duty .............................................................................................................................. 14 Annual Leave .............................................................................................................................. 15 UNTSO Holidays ......................................................................................................................... 15 Days off ....................................................................................................................................... 15 Sick Leave................................................................................................................................... 15 MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND CLEARANCE ................................................................................... 16 Initial Medical Examination before departure ............................................................................... 16 Blood Type .................................................................................................................................. 16 Medical Examinations ................................................................................................................. 16 TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED BEFORE DEPARTURE TO UNTSO ............................... 16 Responsibility .............................................................................................................................. 16 Passport(s) .................................................................................................................................. 16 Visas ........................................................................................................................................... 17 Photographs ................................................................................................................................ 17 International Certificates of Vaccination ...................................................................................... 17 TRAVEL TO AND FROM UNTSO ...................................................................................................... 17 Responsibility .............................................................................................................................. 17 Class and Route .......................................................................................................................... 17 Stopover on Journey ................................................................................................................... 17 Booking Arrangements ................................................................................................................ 18 Arrangements for Arrival at UNTSO ............................................................................................ 18 SHIPMENT AND INSURANCE OF PERSONAL BAGGAGE ............................................................. 19 Accompanied Baggage ............................................................................................................... 19 Insurance .................................................................................................................................... 19 Unaccompanied Baggage ........................................................................................................... 19 Mode of Shipment ....................................................................................................................... 19 Private automobiles and/or motorcycles may not be shipped at United Nations expense ........... 20 Insurance .................................................................................................................................... 20 Shipping Arrangements/Address ................................................................................................. 21 Timing of Dispatch....................................................................................................................... 21 3
CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT .......................................................................................................... 22 General Information..................................................................................................................... 22 Selection of Clothing and Equipment........................................................................................... 22 Clothing and Equipment Allowance ............................................................................................. 22 LIVING CONDITIONS IN THE MISSION AREA ................................................................................. 23 Terrain ......................................................................................................................................... 23 Living Accommodation ................................................................................................................ 23 Electric Current ........................................................................................................................... 24 Food ............................................................................................................................................ 24 Medical, Hospital and Dental Facilities and Expenses................................................................. 24 Recreational, Cultural and Welfare Activities ............................................................................... 24 Mail ............................................................................................................................................. 24 UNTSO Transportation ................................................................................................................ 25 TRAVEL AND MISSION SUBSISTENCE ALLOWANCE ................................................................... 25 Entitlement .................................................................................................................................. 25 Travel Subsistence ...................................................................................................................... 25 Mission Subsistence Allowance .................................................................................................. 25 Withholding of Mission Subsistence Allowance ........................................................................... 26 Currency Regulations .................................................................................................................. 26 COMPENSATION FOR DEATH, INJURY OR ILLNESS .................................................................... 26 Compensation Claims ................................................................................................................. 27 Payee .......................................................................................................................................... 28 Death .......................................................................................................................................... 28 COMPENSATION FOR LOSS OF PERSONAL EFFECTS ................................................................ 28 Entitlement .................................................................................................................................. 28 DEPENDANTS OF UN MILITARY OBSERVERS .............................................................................. 28 ALTERNATIVE SOURCES OF INFORMATION ................................................................................ 28 Books and reading materiel ......................................................................................................... 28 Suggested Internet Sites ............................................................................................................. 28 Annex A ......................................................................................................................................... 30 Transfer Request......................................................................................................................... 30 Annex B...........................................................................................................................................31
Staff Appointments.......................................................................................................................31
Annex C...........................................................................................................................................33
Clothing and Equipment Guide List..............................................................................................33
Annex D...........................................................................................................................................34
Recommended List of Minimum Items for run pack.....................................................................34
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PREFACE
These notes are prepared by Office of Mission Support (OMS), Department of Peacekeeping
Operations (DPKO), United Nations Headquarters, New York, and are sent by this Office to
the UNMO through his/her government, together with a letter of introduction. These notes
have to be read in conjugation with DPKO/DFS UN MEM Manual “Selection, Deployment,
Rotation, Extension, Transfer and Rotation on UN Military Experts on mission in UN
Peacekeeping operations” (hereinafter UN MEM Manual) and “Directives for Disciplinary
Matters involving Civilian Police Officers and Military Observers”.
PURPOSE
The aim of these notes is to provide basic information for military observers to acquaint them
with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) and to enable them to
make the necessary arrangements prior to their departure for the Mission area
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GENERAL BACKGROUND
History and Establishment of UNTSO
In 1917 British forces under command of General Edmund Allenby expelled Turkish forces
from Palestine and other parts of the Middle East Theatre. After the WW I ended, Britain was
"mandated" by the League of Nations to prepare Palestine for future independence. The
British ruled "mandated Palestine” until 1948. During the British mandate Arab nationalism
gained momentum. This sense of Arab nationalism took roots during the WWI and on the
Arab revolt against the Turks which had been encouraged and supported by the British. Also
during the mandate period Jewish immigration to Palestine increased substantially. The
increase in immigration was prompted both by the rise of political Zionism and growing antiJewish sentiment in Europe. Arab nationalism, Jewish immigration, and anti-British
sentiments set up a pattern of strife that continued throughout the mandate years except for
a brief period during the World War II.
Following the WW II, Jewish immigration increased to even higher levels, and the deal
dissatisfied Arab nationalists saw this as a threat to their political future. The British were in
an untenable situation, as they were despised by both parties involved in the struggle for
Palestine. Feelings of frustration and impotence, coupled with the WWII debilitated British
economy, led the British Government in April of 1947 to announce the-termination of the
mandate as of 15 May 1948. The British requested that the United Nations General
Assembly establish a special committee to investigate the situation in Palestine and to
subsequently recommend a solution to the growing problem. The result of the UN- action
was the "Partition Plan" approved by the UN General Assembly on 29 November 1947. The
Plan divided Palestine into an Arab State and a Jewish State. These two states were to be
linked in economic union, and neither state was to have any particular geographic military
advantage over the other. Jerusalem and some adjoining territory were to be an international
zone to ensure free access to all religious shrines. A UN Palestine Commission was created
to implement this plan which was accepted by the Jewish authorities but rejected by the
representatives of the Arab States. The Arabs threatened use of force to oppose
implementation of the Plan. In May 1948, Count Folke Bernadotte of Sweden was chosen by
the UN General Assembly to act as UN Mediator between the Arabs and Jews in an attempt
to stop the guerrilla warfare and terrorism that was already occurring.
When the British mandate expired on 15 May 1948, the Jewish authorities proclaimed the
state of Israel and the Arab states military forces of their regular armies across the old
mandate borders to join the fighting being waged by Arab irregular forces. Fighting was
especially heavy in and out Jerusalem.
Following appeals by the UN Securely Council a four week truce was accepted by the
parties and commenced on 11 June 1948. The terms of the ceasefire were stipulated by the
UN Mediator, and 93 military observer’s primary from the US, France and Belgium were sent
to Palestine to supervise the truce.
This first use of military observers brought UNTSO into being. Despite efforts of the Mediator
to extend the truce beyond the 9th of July, which was acceptable to the Israelis, fighting
renewed at midnight 8th and the military observers were withdrawn. On the 15th of July
1948, the Security Council ordered the parties to cease fire for an indefinite period, and 18th
of July fighting stopped. 572 military observers were sent to supervise the new cease-fire.
Except for a couple of minor flare-ups along the Egyptian front in October and December,
the new cease fire generally was observed.
Between January and July 1949, General Armistice Agreements were negotiated, under the
chairmanship of the UN Mediator, and signed by Israel and her Arab neighbors. These
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Armistice Agreements fixed the ceasefire lines and established Mixed Armistice Commission
(MACs) to deal with problems in that particular area. Each Commission: Egypt Israel Mixed
Armistice Commission (EIMAC), Israel Lebanon Mixed Armistice Commission (ILMAC),
Israel Syria Mixed Armistice Commission (ISMAC), Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Israel
Mixed Armistice Commission (HJKIMAC), was chaired by a UN MilObs and comprised of
delegates from both Israel and the Arab state concerned. UNTSO was charged by the
Security Council to observe and maintain ceasefire and to assist the parties in the
supervision of the terms of the Armistice Agreements. UNTSO performed this mission by
operating the MACs to respond to complaints by the parties, investigating violations of the
Armistice Agreements and assisting the parties in humanitarian efforts such as prisoner
exchanges etc. Maintenance of the ceasefire was accomplished through the use of
observation posts along the Armistice Demarcation Lines (ADL), patrols and negotiations for
re-establishing a cease fire if breach occurred.
Following the 1956 Egypt-Israel War (Sinai Campaign), the Government of Israel renounced
the EIMAC, and claimed that the 1949 Armistice Agreement with Egypt had been voided by
the war. The United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF I) was created to bring stability along
the new Israel - Egypt demarcation line in to Sinai. Armed UNEF forces operated along the
Egyptian border and at Sharm-el-Sheik, assisted by UNTSO UNMOs, until renewal of
hostilities in 1967.
After the 1967 war, UNTSO had to redeploy to the new ceasefire areas: new observation
posts were established on the Golan Heights and on each side of the Suez Canal. The
requirement for ceasefire supervision on the Jordanian-Israeli front no longer existed, and
the HJKIMAC staff was reduced to skeletal strength. Israel renounced all remaining
Armistice Agreements, claiming that the new realities in the area rendered the 1949
agreements null and void. However, each Armistice Agreement contains a provision that it
will remain in force until a peaceful settlement between the parties is achieved, something
which has yet to occur. Thus, the UN considers the General Armistice Agreements (and the
MACs) still valid.
UNMOs' duties/functions between 1967 and the 1973 war were much the same as earlier
periods: to observe and report violations of 1967 ceasefire agreements, including over flights
and unauthorized activity between ceasefire lines, and in the event of breaches to the ceasefire to re-establish the ceasefire.
In 1972 a new ceasefire operation was established along the Israeli-Lebanese border as a
result of Israeli violations of the border and attacks on Israel from commando units based in
southern Lebanon. Five observation posts were established on the Lebanese side of the
border and ILMAC in Beirut received additional personnel. Israel did not recognize/sanction
the activities of UNTSO in this new operational role. UNMO duties primarily consisted of
observing and reporting violations of the ADL, over flights, and any weapons firing.
The 1973 war, through which UNTSO continued to function, resulted in new agreements
between the parties and resulted in the establishment of two new armed UN forces to man
Buffer Zones. UNEF II was deployed in the Sinai, and the United Nations Disengagement
Observer Force (UNDOF) was deployed in the Golan Heights. Both forces were assisted by
UNTSO UNMOs as well as military battalion size units from several nations.
The UNEF II mandate for operation in the Sinai expired in July 1979 and was not renewed.
The operational tasks of UNEF were assumed by UNTSO UNMOs. These tasks, in addition
to reporting violations of the Disengagement Agreement, included the occupation of
checkpoints to control access into the Buffer Zone.
In March 1978 a third armed UN force was established as a result of the Israel invasion and
occupation, of southern Lebanon. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)
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was created to supervise the withdrawal of Israeli forces and to re-establish tranquility in the
area. UNMOs were placed under the operational control of UNIFIL and the OPs were taken
over from ILMAC headquarters in Beirut, while ILMAC continued to function as Liaison Office
with Government of Lebanon and other parties to dispute in the south.
The headquarters of ILMAC in Beirut worked as a liaison office for UNIFIL until that Force
established its own liaison office in Beirut. Following the Israeli incursions into Lebanon in
June 1982 the Security Council authorized the Secretary-General to immediately deploy
UNTSO observers to monitor the situation around Beirut.
Initially 10 observers were assigned to Observer Group Beirut (OGB) and was increased to
50 after the killings of a large number of Palestinians in Sabra and Shatila refugee camps.
Following the withdrawal of the Israeli forces from Beirut area in September 1983, the tasks
assigned to OGB were reduced and in mid-1992, OGB was converted to UNLOB, later to
UNTSO Liaison office in Beirut (UNTSO LOB). This office represents COS/HOM UNTSO by
conducting liaison visits and meetings with the diplomatic representations in order to
maintain and/or build up good relations with UNTSO. The Chief of UNTSO LOB is also the
designated Chairman of Israel-Lebanon Mixed Armistice Commission (ILMAC)
The peace treaty concluded in 1979 between Egypt and Israel superseded the 1949
Armistice Agreement in that sector, thus terminating the Egypt-Israel Mixed Armistice
Commission. IDF withdraw from the interim Sinai buffer zone in January 1980, but at the
request of the Egyptian Government, UNTSO has continued to maintain a presence in the
area. Liaison Office to Cairo (UNTSO LOC) was established on 26 September 2008 as a
result of mission change from an Observer Group to a Liaison Office. Observer Group Egypt
(OGE) was established on 1 April 1980 as a successor to Observer Group Sinai (OGS)
following the signing of the Camp David Accorde.
In 1994 Israel and Jordan signed a peace treaty and the UNTSO Office in Amman was
closed the following year. Since that time, liaison with the Jordanian and Israeli authorities
was handled by UNTSO Headquarters in Jerusalem. In July 2009, the Liaison Office Amman
& Tel Aviv (LOATA) was established to represent the COS/HOM UNTSO in Israel and
Jordan. The main tasks are to liaise, cooperate, and maintain good relations with Israeli and
Jordan officials and UN organizations in both countries. At all times CLOATA (Chief LOATA)
will maintain an organization that effectively integrates military and civilian components,
operate impartially in appearance and stays in close contact with IDF and Jordanian Armed
Forces regarding security and safety issues.
At present, UNTSO supports UNDOF on the Golan in the Israel-Syria sector with Observer
Group Golan (OGG), and UNIFIL in the Israel-Lebanon sector with Observer Group Lebanon
(OGL).
UNDOF and UNIFIL are armed forces with temporary mandates within the UNTSO Mission
Area. UNTSO is an unarmed organization and an open ended mandate aimed at achieving a
comprehensive and long lasting peace in the region. UNTSO works closely with both UNIFIL
and UNDOF in the fulfillment of their respective mandates.
UNTSO personnel military and civilian have always been available at short notice to form the
nucleus of other peace-keeping operations and have remained to assist those operations.
The availability of the UNMOs and UN civilian support staff for deployment when the
Security Council acts to create new operations has been a major factor in the success of
those operations.
32 UNTSO Military Observers have been killed on duty since the Mission started in 1948. On
the United Nations Day, 24 October 1991, a monument containing a Roll of Honor was
dedicated to their memory at Government House in Jerusalem (House of UNTSO HQ). The
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last fatalities for UNTSO are from 2006 Lebanon war when four UNMOs (one UNMO from
Austria, Canada, China and Finland) lost their lives on the 25th of July while serving for
peace at OP Khiam. In remembrance of the incident, the 25th of July has been called as
Khiam Memorial Day and on this particular day OGL is arranging an annual memorial.
Organisation
1.
UNTSO is an unaccompanied mission.
2.
UNTSO is headed by a Chief of Staff (COS), who is also the Head of Mission (HoM)
and normally a General in the armed services of his/her own country, appointed by and
reporting to the Secretary-General. In the performance of his/her functions, he/she is
assisted by:
a.
Chief of Mission Support. The Chief of Mission Support (CMS) is the principal
advisor to HoM on UN rules, regulations, governance, finance, budget, personnel and
administration. He is also responsible for all logistic and administrative support to the
Mission.
b.
Advisory Staff. These are career staff in the professional category and consist
of: Senior Advisor/Public Information Officer (SA/PIO); Senior Legal Adviser (SLA);
Chief Security Officer (CSO).
c.
Deputy Chief of Staff (DCOS):
d.
Military Personnel:
e.
i.
Eleven (11) Senior Staff Officers;
ii.
UNMOs chosen to serve in staff positions.
iii.
UNMOs assigned to observation posts, mobile patrols and other duties.
Administrative Staff
i.
ii.
International staff in the Professional and Field Service category, all of who
are international civil servants especially recruited for, or assigned to
UNTSO from established UN offices worldwide for service with United
Nations field missions.
Staff recruited locally in the Mission area.
Duty Stations
3.
The UNTSO Mission Area encompasses Israel (less Gaza and the West Bank),
Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. UNTSO operates from its HQ and
from seven (7) duty stations in four (4) countries of the Mission area. In the course of his/her
tour of duty, the UNMO may be required to serve at more than one of these main duty
stations, listed below:
a.
Jerusalem. Headquarters of UNTSO located at Government House.
b.
Ismailia. UNTSO Liaison Office Cairo (UNTSO LOC) with its headquarters in
Ismailia. The function of LOC is to continue the UN presence in the Sinai,
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including conducting patrols; liaison with the Egyptian Government; and liaison
with the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO).
c.
Damascus.
i.
Observer Group Golan (OGG) Headquarters is co-located with UNDOF
Headquarters in Camp Faouar and is under operational control of the
Force Commander (FC) of UNDOF.
ii.
OGG-D (Damascus) is a sub-unit of OGG. UNMOs operating out of
Damascus are under the control of OGG-D and operate from the ISMAC
House. The UNMOs man five (5) observation posts on the Golan, conduct
inspections, patrolling, etc., on the Bravo side of the Area of Separation
(AOS).
iii.
UNTSO Liaison Office Damascus (UNTSO LOD). UNMOs in LOD at
ISMAC House are performing liaison between UNTSO and the Syrian
Authorities. It is the seat of the Israeli-Syrian Mixed Armistice Commission
(ISMAC). Chief LOD acts as Chairman of ISMAC.
d.
Tiberias. OGG-T (Tiberias) is a sub-unit of OGG. UNMOs operating out of
Tiberias are under the control of OGG-T and operate from the MAC House. The
UNMOs man six (6) observation posts on the Golan, conduct inspections,
patrolling, etc., on the Alpha side of the AOS.
e.
Beirut. The UNTSO Liaison Office Beirut (UNTSO LOB): UNMOs in LOB at
UNIFIL House are performing liaison between UNTSO and the Lebanon
Authorities, the seat of the Israeli-Lebanon Mixed Armistice Commission
(ILMAC). Chief LOB acts as Chairman of ILMAC.
f.
Naqoura/Tyre. Observer Group Lebanon (OGL) Headquarters, collocated with
UNIFIL Headquarters in Naqoura and under operational control of the FC of
UNIFIL. OGL operates from its HQ and from two Patrol Bases located within
UNIFIL positions. UNMOs conducting Patrols, Meetings and Investigations.
THE UN MILITARY OBSERVER
Definition
4.
UNMOs are military personnel placed at the disposal of the UN on a loan basis by
Governments of Member States at the request of the Secretary-General. They are at present
provided by 24 Troop Contributing Countries (TCC): Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium,
Canada, Chile, China, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, Malawi, Nepal, the
Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the Russian Federation, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden,
Switzerland and the United States of America. The current authorized strength of UNTSO
military observers as of November 2011 is 153.
Conduct and Performance
5.
While in the Mission area, UNMOs are under the COS authority and directly
answerable to him/her for their conduct and the performance of their duties. The COS is
authorized to accord official recognition of service merits of the UNMO, as well as to
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maintain military discipline. UNMOs assigned to the UNDOF or UNIFIL areas of operation
are under the operational control of the respective Force Commanders.
6.
UNMOs shall, during the term of their appointment, discharge their functions and
regulate their conduct solely with the interests of the United Nations in view and shall not
seek to accept instructions in respect of performance of duties from their government or any
other authority external to the UN.
7.
UNMOs must be at all times completely impartial and objective, and they should
avoid any action that might give rise to doubts about their ability to remain so. For this
reason, a UNMO should have neither family ties nor other close ties with individuals or
organisations in the countries in the Mission area.
8.
UNMOs shall exercise the utmost discretion in respect of all matters of official
business. They shall not communicate to any person any information known to them by
reason of their official position that has not been made public, except by authorisation of the
Chief of Staff. Nor shall they at any time use such information to private advantage. These
obligations shall not cease after the term of their appointment with UNTSO. On taking up
their assignment with UNTSO, UNMOs are required to sign the Text of Undertaking and
Declaration by Experts on Mission. This text is reproduced in DPKOP/DFS UNMEN Manual.
9.
UNMOs are not authorized to carry arms at any time, and arms cannot be brought
into the Mission area or obtained while serving with UNTSO.
Privileges and Immunities
10.
The privileges and immunities of observers are defined under Article VI - Experts on
Missions for the United Nations - of the Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the
United Nations, adhered to by all governments in the Mission area. The text of Article VI is
reproduced in DPKO/DFS UNMEN Manual. These privileges and immunities are granted in
the interest of the United Nations and not the personal benefit of the individual. The
Secretary-General has the right and the duty to waive the immunity of an observer in any
case where, in his/her opinion, the immunity would impede the course of justice. Such a
waiver should be without prejudice to the interests of the United Nations. The national
authority, SNMO of a UNMO shall take whatever legal or disciplinary action may be
warranted against him/her, in accordance with his/her country's laws and regulations.
Financial Liabilities
11.
The UNMO may be required to reimburse the United Nations either partially or in full
for any financial loss suffered by the United Nations as a result of his/her negligence or of
his/her having violated any regulation, rule or administrative instruction, this may be done by
withholding Mission Subsistence Allowance (MSA).
Qualifications
12.
The following qualifications are mandatory for UNMOs assigned to UNTSO. Officers
arriving in the Mission Area without these qualifications may be repatriated to the Troop
Contributing Country (TCC).
13.
The essential qualifications are listed in DPKO/DFS UNMEM Manual “Selection,
Deployment, Rotation, Extension, Transfers and Repatriation on UN Military Experts on
Mission in UN Peace Keeping Operations”; and are:
a.
Citizenship of the country he/she is representing.
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b.
Serving officer between the ages of 25 and 551 with at least 5 years service as a
commissioned officer2.
c.
Physically and mentally fit for strenuous operations and long hours of work in
difficult living conditions.
d.
Previous staff experience and service with troops.
e.
Trained in skills for patrolling by vehicle, foot and using helicopters.
f.
Training in light or medium weapons.
g.
Proficient in land navigation and the use of GPS.
h.
Proficient in the use of Night Vision Devices.
i.
Proficient in the working language of the Mission; English.
j.
Proficient in the use of computers and communications systems.
k.
Proficient in basic first aid.
l.
Proficient in driving 4x4 vehicles (on and off road).
m. 7000 kg class license.
Note: when a UNMO arrives in the Mission area with a higher rank than requested by the
Secretary-General or is promoted during his/her tour of duty, UNTSO will not be obliged to
take that rank into consideration in determining the UNMO’s assignments.
Desirable qualifications
14.
The desirable qualifications are:
a.
Completed an UNMO training course.
b.
Trained in negotiating skills.
c.
Trained in the use of translators.
d.
Previous peacekeeping experience.
e.
Operational experience.
f.
Training in UN security rules.
g.
Training in general situation of the Mission
DEPLOYMENT TO UNTSO AND INDUCTION TRAINING
15.
Arrival Details. It is absolutely essential, that all relevant personal detail information
of new arriving MilObs must be processed within the required timeframe (NLT – 4 weeks),
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2
The upper age limit is not applicable to CMOs and officers of the rank of Colonel and above.
Special cases for officers promoted from the ranks may be made.
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and transmitted to DPKO/FGS well in advance of MilObs deployment to and arrival in the
Mission area. Information required; Country departure - the place, date, mode (eg Air, Land
or Sea); Time and Place of arrival in the UNTSO Mission area, (as forecast by the
TCC/Permanent Mission) is to be advised to DPKO/FGS and the HQ UNTSO Military
Personnel Office and Travel office, no later than (NLT) 4 weeks prior arrival of MilObs in the
Mission Area. It is normal procedure for the UNMOs arrival to be scheduled one day before
the commencement of UNTSO Induction Training for that month.
16.
Where an UNMO has separate or other personal travel arrangements which will have
the UNMO arrive in the UNTSO Mission Area before commencement of Induction Training
for reasons of personal convenience these details are also to be notified to the UNTSO
HQ/MPO well in advance of deployment and arrival of UNMOs in the Mission area.
17.
Welcome Package. On arrival pick up at the hotel in Jerusalem, the incoming UNMO
will be provided a "Welcome Package", either at the Hotel or from the UNMO who picks
them up from the airport, containing an Induction Training Program, security information and
important administrative documents.
18.
Items required at Induction Training. All new UNMOs are required to bring the
following items on the first day of Induction Training:
a.
The UNTSO Welcome/Document Pack;
b.
Passports;
c.
A minimum of 8 colour passport sized photos of the UNMO – preferably in
Uniform;
d.
A valid national/military/international driver's licence and previous UN drivers
licence, if applicable;
e.
All original documents/receipts in respect of the UNMO's travel, including: air
tickets, boarding passes, excess luggage, MCO for excess baggage when
applicable, taxi, hotels etc in order to submit appropriate travel claims; and
f.
Two copies of their Inventory lists of goods shipped as unaccompanied baggage
19.
The first 30 days of an UNMOs deployment is to be dedicated to induction, training
and preparing them for operations.
20.
Induction Training. UNMOs will spend four days in Jerusalem for their initial
induction phase. This consists of the following training:
a.
Cultural awareness and gender awareness brief;
b.
Stress Management brief;
c.
Safety and Security/ Field security test;
d.
Legal Brief;
e.
Fire fighting Brief/ practical fire fighting exercise;
f.
Transport Brief/driving test; and
g.
Military personnel Office brief.
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21.
Phase two of the induction training takes place at the outstations and consists of the
following:
a.
Operations brief;
b.
Joint Area Familiarisation Training/Car Patrol/ Inspection Brief (OGG only);
c.
Static Observation Post Brief (OGG only);
d.
Verbal and Written reporting; and
e.
Vehicle/Terrain familiarisation training.
22.
Phase three of the induction training occurs on week three and four of the training
cycle and consists of the following:
a.
Chiefs Challenge One (CC1) consists of a written test on skills and knowledge
attained over the initial outstation induction training;
b.
Chiefs Challenge Two (CC2) (OGG only) consists of an oral brief (OP Platform
brief); a practical examination, and verbal Q&A on various senarios.
c.
Test OGL (TOGL) (OGL only) consists of an oral brief and ground brief.
SELECTION, POSTING, TRANSFER, STAFF ASSIGNMENTS, DURATION AND
EXTENSION OF TOUR OF DUTY
Selection
23.
UNMOs are recruited in accordance with what listed in UN MEM Manual. The
selection of a UNMO is responsibility of the government that has agreed in advance to
provide the UNMO. Confirmation of the appointment is subject to approval by the SecretaryGeneral.
Posting
24.
The posting of UNMOs is to be effected within the general UN policy. The policy
dictates operational requirements, restrictions and national balance. The Chief Military
Personnel Officer (CMPO) is responsible to manage the postings within the rules.
Transfer
25.
An UNMO can be transferred from an outstation to another outstation either for
operational reasons or on request after five to six months (Annex A).
Staff Appointments
26.
All the UNMO’s can apply for staff positions during their tour of duty including the
staff positions beyond their own outstation. Staff positions are defined as positions where an
UNMO is posted to UNTSO HQ, OGG HQ, OGG-T HQ, OGG-D, LOB, LOC or LOD.SEE
ANNEX B.
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Duration and Extension of Tour of Duty
27.
Assignments are normally one year in duration. Assignments may be extended
subject to recommendation from COS and the approval of the Troop Contributing Countries
(TCC); and the DPKO/Office of the Military Advisor. The extension request needs to fully
justify the reasons behind the need for an extension. If the extension request is based on the
national policy of the TCC, the Senior National Military Observer (SNMO) of the country is to
inform the Outstation/Section Chief seeking the Chief to initiate the extension request.
Administrative Matters
28.
Correspondence with the UNMO on all administrative arrangements connected with
the assignment and travel, both prior to his/her departure for the Mission area and after
completion of his/her assignment with UNTSO, will be conducted by the Office of Mission
Support (OMS) Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), United Nations
Headquarters, New York. During his/her tour of duty in the Mission area, the UNMO shall
deal with the UNTSO Chief of Mission Support (CMS), through the Chief Military Personnel
Officer (CMPO), on all administrative and financial matters.
DUTY SCHEDULE, LEAVE, ANNUAL LEAVE, WEEKENDS, UNTSO HOLIDAYS,
DAYS OFF, SPECIAL LEAVE AND SICK LEAVE
General
29.
The UN has made provisions for annual leave and days off to be granted to UNMO.
Both annual leave and days off are a privilege and not a right. They are granted with the
understanding that the needs of UN service have priority. Annual leave and days off are
granted as compensation for periods of duty. It is the responsibility of each individual to
effectively manage his/her leave and time-off in accordance with the rules. An UNMO can be
called upon at any time for duty.
30.
Neither Annual Leave nor Day off can normally be taken within the last seven (7)
days before DDM.
Hours of Duty
31.
UNTSO has a five-day working week policy from Monday to Friday. Compensatory
time off is not applicable.
32.
Hours of duty are determined by the tasks to be performed and the situation in the
specific area of operation. In quiet times, the work may not be arduous but nevertheless
does not allow for a regular or settled way of life. In time of emergency, personnel may be
required to work long hours with little rest.
33.
An UNMO is not required for normal duty in the follow occasion:
a.
Annual Leave
b.
Weekends
c.
UNTSO Holidays
d.
Days off
e.
Special Leave
15
f.
Sick Leave
Note: when an UNMO is required to be on duty over a weekend or UNTSO holidays, they
are compensated with Days off.
34.
The duration of an OP or Patrol Base duty is normally no more than seven
continuous days.
Annual Leave
35.
Annual leave is defined as time free from duty during the working week (Monday Friday) that an UNMO has earned through his/her service with the UN it can normally be
taken in any place.
36.
Annual leave is always subject to the operational requirements of the organisation
and approval of the appropriate leave approval authority.
37.
An UNMO accrues annual leave at the rate of 2.5 days per month of completed
service except for the arriving and leaving months (partial month of service).
38.
Applications for leave shall be made through the chain of command to the UNMOs
leave approving authority. The application is to include an accurate address where the
UNMO can be contacted for recall. Applications for leave outside the mission area should
reach the approving authority at least 14 days prior to the commencement of the leave.
39.
Leave applications are not required for weekends and UNTSO holidays A leave
application must be submitted for all annual leave days (AL) and days off (DO) regardless of
the location. Any period of time taken off duty involving a combination or either a weekend,
UNTSO holiday, day off and annual leave requires a leave application to be submitted for
approval.
UNTSO Holidays
40.
All official UNTSO holidays are specified in the annual UN Information Circular. This
circular specifies the UNTSO holidays for the year that will be officially observed in the HQ
UNTSO and at the different outstations.
Days off
41.
For operational reasons when an UNMO is required to work for seven hours on either
a Saturday, Sunday or official UNTSO holiday, then one day off is granted for each day
worked, by the appropriate authority.
42.
The performance of all on-call or standby duties in HQ UNTSO and Outstations are
considered an integral part of routine duties and does not automatically merit the award of a
day off. Leave approving authorities can only grant a day off if personnel on-call or on
standby duties are actually required to work for a period of seven or more hours on
Saturdays, Sundays or UN holidays.
Sick Leave
43.
For approved sick leave granted by a Medical Doctor/Medical Assistant Officer the
following conditions apply MSA is payable when on approved sick leave within the mission
area. MSA is not payable when on approved sick leave outside of the mission area.
Approved sick leave, up to a maximum of 29 days, may be used outside of the mission area
16
for paternity leave or a family related emergency such as serious illness of an immediate
relative (eg. spouse, children or parents).
44.
If an UNMO is hospitalized within the mission area the accommodation portion of
MSA is payable. In case of hospitalization outside of the mission area, reimbursement may
be made for retained accommodation up to a maximum of 50 percent of the established
MSA rate.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND CLEARANCE
Initial Medical Examination before departure
45.
The UNMO must ensure that (NLT 1 month) prior to his/her departure to the Mission
area the military authorities of his/her country forward through his/her government's
Permanent Mission in New York, a copy of his/her medical history and the result of his/her
latest medical examination (including eyesight test) to the Medical Director, Medical Service,
United Nations, New York. These will be used by the Medical Director for verification of
physical fitness and as a record of the UNMO’s physical condition upon appointment.
Blood Type
46.
The UNMO shall obtain prior to his/her departure to the Mission area an authoritative
record of his/her blood type and Rh factor. This record shall be carried at all times by the
UNMO.
Medical Examinations
47.
UNMOs are required to undergo a full medical examination while in the Mission area,
under the following circumstances:
a.
Following service-related accident or serious injury or illness; and
b.
Upon completion of tour of duty in a Mission, unless a full medical examination
had been conducted within 3 months of this date.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED BEFORE DEPARTURE TO UNTSO
Responsibility
48.
Prior to arrival in UNTSO Mission area, the UNMO is responsible for securing his/her
travel documentation and must complete form which must be forwarded by the National
Authorities to the Permanent Mission, UNHQ NY, (Not Later Than 1 month) prior his/her
arrival to UNTSO.
49.
UNTSO personnel are required to ensure that their national passports and national
driving licenses are valid at all times.
Passport(s)
50.
UNMOs should be in possession of two "diplomatic" passports from national
authorities. If a diplomatic passport is not possible, it is essential for them to have either
"Service", "Official", or "Special" passports. The observer should have two passports so that
Israeli visa and Egyptian, Jordanians, and visas for other countries can be kept in different
passports. It is also essential that the UNMO's title be shown as "Military Observer". The
passports should be valid for at least two years.
17
Visas
51.
For Israel, a visa is required as per the Israeli regulations, before the UNMO’s arrival
in the mission area. As applicable valid visas are to be maintained for all countries in the
Mission area. All other residence visas are to be obtained through the AO at the respective
field station in Syria, Lebanon or Egypt. Upon arrival in the Mission area, one passport will
be submitted to the MOFA to obtain the Israeli service visa extension. UNMOs are
responsible for requesting the renewing of visa well in advance of the expiration date
(minimum of three weeks).
Photographs
52.
To facilitate issuance of visa and for internal record purposes, the UNMO should
bring with him/her 8 recent passport size photographs in uniform and (if possible) one digital
picture available on memory stick.
International Certificates of Vaccination
53.
Vaccinations, as laid down by the WHO are strongly recommended for all UNMOs
before departure to the Mission area. The UNMO’s certificates of vaccination must be in
his/her possession at all times.
54.
The following vaccinations are recommended for a UNMO to serve with UNTSO:
Tetanus, Poliomyelitis, Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B. UNMOs should arrive fully vaccinated to
the Mission area.
TRAVEL TO AND FROM UNTSO
Responsibility
55.
The United Nations pays the travel expenses of the UNMO to the Mission area upon
appointment and the return travel to his/her home country upon completion of his/her one
year tour of duty.
Class and Route
56.
Air transportation is in economy or tourist class between the UNMO’s home duty
station, residence or place where his/her military authorities are located and UNTSO
Headquarters, via Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, by the most direct route and most
economical fare.
57.
The United Nations will not normally object to travel by indirect route or by sea and/or
rail or road subject to service exigencies, provided that prior to the commencement of travel,
the UNMO pays all additional costs in excess of the most direct air travel. Any such travel by
road is authorized for the convenience of the UNMO and at his/her own risk.
58.
When travel by road is authorised, the UNMO will be reimbursed on a mileage rate,
with appropriate subsistence computed on the basis of the most direct route. The total
amount payable, however, shall not exceed the cost of the least costly airfare. The mileage
rate established by the Secretary-General shall be payable to only one UNMO when two or
more UNMOs are travelling together on the same journey and in the same motor vehicle.
Stopover on Journey
59.
If the scheduled time for the journey is more than 16 hours, UNMOs may have one
stopover for rest purpose, which shall not exceed 24 hours, at an intermediate point in the
18
journey. Subsistence allowance is not payable for this authorized stopover; however, the
individual may be reimbursed for actual costs incurred in respect of food and lodging upon
submission of receipts, up to the maximum established rates of subsistence allowance. This
shall not preclude the possibility of authorizing additional unavoidable stopover while waiting
connecting transportation that could not reasonably be regarded as rest stops. No travel
subsistence allowance shall be payable for other types of stopovers while travelling by air.
Booking Arrangements
60.
Details of travel arrangement are shown on the United Nations travel authorization
form (PT.8), a copy of which is e-mailed to the UNMO, prior to his/her departure to UNTSO
through his/her UN PM in NY. In order to achieve all relevant arrangements in advance
within all required timeframes effectively, it absolutely essential that Troop Contributing
Countries (TCC) provide all relevant personal details of their nomination of selected UNMO
well in advance to UNHQ in NY, to Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO/FGS),
attention to Force Generation Services (FGS), no later than (NLT) 4 weeks in advance of
UNMO deployment to UNTSO.
61.
UNTSO is delegated by the United Nations Headquarters to make all travel and
shipping arrangements through the nominated travel agency and shipping company. The
UNTSO Travel/Traffic unit is required to confirm to Permanent Mission (PM) of the
respective country the arrangements made, including dates of arrival.
62.
In instances, however when travel is arranged by the UNMO’s government the
United Nations reimburses the government upon receipt of invoices up to the amount of
entitlement.
63.
Once arrangement is finalized an e-ticket will be sent to the PM together with other
travel documents. The UNMO should contact the appropriate Airline office, when applicable,
at an early date in order to confirm reservations; and the UN designated shipping company
to arrange for shipment.
Arrangements for Arrival at UNTSO
64.
UNMOs will arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, on a specified day in each month
and are met on arrival at the airport by a representative of the HQ UNTSO. The UNMO
whose travel has not been arranged directly by UNTSO, the respective national defence
office is under obligation to ensure that UNTSO is informed, as soon as possible, of his/her
itinerary. This should include the names of airlines and flight numbers. Delays encountered
en route affecting the date or time of arrival should be reported to Headquarters UNTSO
(Jerusalem). See Contact details.
65.
Hotel rooms in Jerusalem will be booked over all the induction period for all the new
UNMOs by UNTSO HQ Training Officer before the arrival of newcomers. Each UNMO is in
response to pay his/her accommodation by they own during the introduction period in
Jerusalem. For security and operational reasons it is mandatory for all new UNMOs to stay
in the booked hotel.
66.
The UNMO shall report to UNTSO on the planned date.
67.
The UNMOs should obtain receipts for all payments made during his/her journey.
Upon arrival at UNTSO, he/she should submit his/her travel claim for reimbursement on
Claim Form F.10 and attach all tickets counterfoils and receipts.
19
SHIPMENT AND INSURANCE OF PERSONAL BAGGAGE
68.
The following items are not to be brought to the Mission area:
a.
Explosives, firearms, guns and/or parts thereof, ammunition and/or any
flammable materials.
b.
Narcotics, fresh food, fruit, vegetables and/or alcohol.
c.
Printed materials bearing controversial markings or words, i.e. books,
magazines, maps, packing slips, instruction manuals, tags, labels, posters
etc.
d.
Pornographic material of any kind.
Accompanied Baggage
69.
In addition to the normal economy class free baggage allowance specified by the
carrier, the observer travelling by air is entitled to a maximum excess baggage allowance
which takes the overall baggage up to one bag or up to 25 kg, for which he will be
reimbursed by the United Nations.
Insurance
70.
The United Nations does not accept responsibility for insuring accompanied
baggage. A UNMO requiring such insurance should arrange for it at his/her own expense.
Unaccompanied Baggage
71.
Entitlement. In addition to his/her accompanied baggage allowance, the UNMO is
entitled to accompanied/unaccompanied baggage allowance as follows:
a.
When the tour of duty is one year or longer: 6.23 cubic metres or 1,000 kg (or
220 cu. ft. or 2,200 lbs.) surface shipment, or in lieu thereof, 500 kg (1,100 lbs)
by airfreight. In consultation with UNHQ and for operational purposes, the UNMO
may opt for up to 100 kg accompanied baggage in lieu of the unaccompanied
shipment entitlement. This is applicable only for the initial travel.
b.
When the tour of duty is less than one year: 1.24 cubic metres or 200 kg (or 48
cu. ft. or 484 lbs) surface shipment or in lieu thereof, 100 kg by airfreight.
Mode of Shipment
72.
Shipment shall be made in one consignment and should normally be arranged by
UNTSO, unless an agreement has been made with the national authorities for other
arrangements.
73.
Surface shipment shall normally be authorized on return journey. However, the
UNMO may convert the whole of his/her surface shipment entitlement to airfreight in
accordance with the one-half rule. No split shipment will be authorized on return journey.
74.
Sea baggage rates normally are determined by cubic measure, and inland transport
rates by rail or truck are determined by weight. A shipment that exceeds the dimensions
given in paragraph 67 will usually result in excess charges for which the UNMO will not be
reimbursed.
20
Private automobiles and/or motorcycles may not be shipped at United Nations
expense
75.
Private Owned Vehicle (POV) is a privilege and not an entitlement. The Israeli
authorities have frozen this privilege. UNTSO is not responsible for securing temporary blue
registration cards for any vehicle brought into Israel before the freeze is lifted. If you choose
to bring a POV, you are advised to check the implications. For those to be posted in Syria
and Lebanon, it is recommended that these vehicles be shipped directly to the respective
missions.
76.
UNMOs assigned to UNTSO are advised that the following restrictions currently
apply to privately owned vehicles (POVs) in countries within the Mission area:
77.
a.
Lebanon – non-importation of diesel fuel vehicles or vehicles purchased in Israel;
b.
Egypt – non-importation of RH drive or diesel fuel vehicles;
c.
Syria –non-importation of vehicles purchased in Israel;
d.
Israel – non-registration of RH drive vehicles, vehicles over 4 years old to be
exported. Non-importation of vehicles from countries with no diplomatic relations.
The UNMO is officially NOT-allowed from bringing into Syria the following items:
a.
Short wave receivers,
b.
Fax modem machines,
c.
Satellite receivers, and
d.
Offensive materials, e.g. books/films/magazines, etc; items and goods
manufactured in Israel and/or with Hebrew markings.
Insurance
78.
Insurance on the authorized surface or airfreight shipment of personal effects
(including coverage for inland transportation) up to US$ 16.000.00 value by the UN HQ upon
receipt of the itemized valued inventory and copies of the bill of lading and/or airway bill. If
no such inventory is furnished, no insurance coverage will be provided. The inventory may
be made in any of the official languages of the UN, but English is preferable.
79.
As a rule, if insurance does not cover the full value of the shipment, insurance
companies reimburse for losses on a pro-rated basis. However, if the total value of the
shipment exceeds US$16,000 - the UN will only arrange coverage on the excess if
specifically requested by the UNMO. Such additional cost shall be at the expense of the
UNMO. When insurance is arranged by the UNMO’s governments or military authorities the
reimbursement of premium charges up to US$ 16,000 - coverage will be made upon
presentation of supporting documentation.
80.
The United Nations provides insurance coverage for shipment of the UNMO’s
unaccompanied personal effects only. Any other type of insurance coverage that the UNMO
may require - for him/her accompanied personal effects, private car/motor bicycle, etc. - is
not provided by the United Nations and must be arranged for by the UNMO.
21
81.
It is recommended that, upon arrival, the UNMO join the UNTSO Private Mutual
Vehicle Insurance Plan (P.M.V.I.P.), which provides certain coverage for damage caused to
United Nations vehicles. The cost of insurance for UNMOs is 5$.
Shipping Arrangements/Address
82.
Shipment of the UNMO’s unaccompanied baggage on his/her initial journey shall
normally be made by the UN designated shipping agent indicated on the copy of the Travel
Authorization (PT.8). If such shipment is arranged and paid for by the UNMO or his/her
government, reimbursement up to the entitlement will be made by the United Nations upon
presentation of supporting documents, including the rated bill of lading and/or airway bill.
83.
All consignments and unaccompanied surface freight shall be addressed as follows:
Jerusalem - ISRAEL
Chief Mission Support
Attn: UNMO's Name and rank
UNTSO Headquarters Jerusalem
Government House Armon H'Anatziv
P. O. Box 490, Jerusalem 91004,
ISRAEL
Tel: 00972 2 568 7222
Fax: 00972 2 568 7400
Damascus – SYRIA
UNTSO - Damascus
c/o UNRWA Compound
Beirut Rd.
Mezzah, Damascus
SYRIA
Notify party: Iain Dickinson Tel: 00963-11-6130089
Tyre – LEBANON
The Administrative Officer
UNTSO - Observer Group Lebanon
PO Box 254 Tyre,
LEBANON
Tel. 961-1-827 108/196
For Russian Federation UNMOs, information on shipping unaccompanied baggage should
be obtained from the competent authorities of their government.
Timing of Dispatch
84.
Since it may take as much as three months (depending on point of origin) for
unaccompanied surface shipments to arrive at their destination and from one to three weeks
if shipped by air, shipping arrangements should be completed by the UNMO sufficiently in
advance for receipt of shipment at the time of the UNMO's arrival in the area. To avoid
unnecessary storage charges, should the shipment arrive in Israel 10 to 15 days after arrival
of the UNMO, it is essential that the instructions contained in paragraph 62 are strictly
adhered to. In the any case shipments are not meant to arrive to the Mission Area before all
the VISA arrangements are accomplished with the host country, due the responsibility
issues. This means basically two to three weeks after the arrival of UNMO.
22
CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
General Information
85.
Owing to the varied terrain and climate, personal clothing and equipment
requirements differ greatly, depending upon the area to which the UNMO is assigned.
Normally, he/she is assigned to different postings that cover the whole range of climatic and
geographical conditions within the Mission area. The UNMO should bear this in mind and be
prepared for temperature changes ranging from below 0 degrees to 50 degrees C. according
to season and location of his/her duty station. A detailed guide to clothing and equipment is
contained in ANNEX C.
Selection of Clothing and Equipment
86.
87.
Uniforms:
a.
UNMOs shall wear their national (winter or summer) uniforms while on duty.
These uniforms must be brought with the UNMO as accompanied baggage.
b.
Summer uniforms are suitable for the entire Mission area for most of the year,
but warmer uniforms will be required for winter months at any duty station.
c.
Combat type uniforms are to be worn for all duties in the field.
United Nations Issue:
a.
United Nations insignia (badge and shoulder patches), United Nations blue
berets, peak caps and blue scarf’s are issued free to UNMOs on arrival; all
UNMOs are required to wear these in conformity with the instructions prescribed
for their use by the United Nations.
b.
Only one free issue, per service year, of United Nations insignia is made to each
UNMO. If lost through negligence, the UNMO will be required to pay the
standard fees for subsequent issues. When assigned on duty in an area where
firing may occur, the UNMOs are issued United Nations blue helmets and
armoured vests, which they should wear whenever necessary.
88.
Field Equipment. It is desirable for the UNMOs to bring their army issue of
equipment, such as field glasses, compasses, etc. Sleeping bags, first aid kits and a full set
of national NBC equipment must be brought as part of regular army issue.
89.
Arms. Since observers are not authorised to carry arms at anytime, arms are not be
brought to the Mission area. It is also strictly prohibited for UNMOs to purchase or possess
any kind of weapons while serving with UNTSO.
90.
Cameras and Video/Audio Recorders. Cameras and video/audio recorders may be
used for recording in support of operational or administrative tasks for the purpose of
providing evidence or clarification. UNMOs should familiarise themselves upon arrival with
the UNTSO SOP, which gives details on the use of cameras in the Mission area.
Clothing and Equipment Allowance
91.
The present entitlement for clothing and equipment is US$200 for the first year of
service. The allowance is paid in two instalments, the first half upon the UNMO's arrival in
the Mission area, the second half at the end of six months, when there is a reasonable
expectation that the UNMO will complete a full year's tour of duty. An additional allowance
23
of US$100 will be paid to a UNMO whose appointment is extended beyond the first year, in
instances when such an extension or series of extensions will bring the total duration of the
appointment to a minimum of two years and there is reasonable expectation that the UNMO
will actually serve a full two years. The maximum payable is thus $300.00 for two years,
with no entitlement for subsequent years.
LIVING CONDITIONS IN THE MISSION AREA
92.
Climate. The Mission Area has generally a Mediterranean climate, characterized by
long, hot, and dry summers and cool, rainy winters, as modified locally by altitude and
latitude.
93.
The cold season normally begins in the latter part of November and continues
through to the end of March. Rainfall is concentrated in this period, but is unevenly
distributed ranging from 1200 millimetres annually in the north, dropping to less than 100
mm in the south. Precipitation varies from year to year and is often concentrated in violent
storms, causing erosion and locally contained flooding. During January and February, it may
take the form of snow at higher elevation including Jerusalem and the central West Bank,
the Golan Heights, Damascus, and the eastern foothills of Mount Hermon in south Lebanon.
There, temperatures may drop below 0 degrees Celsius. Temperatures are higher in the
Sinai but may also drop to 0 degrees during night time.
94.
The hot season usually begins in April and ends in November. Peak temperatures
are encountered in July and August where they may rise to 38 degrees Celsius and even
higher in desert areas. However, there is normally a temperature drop of several degrees at
night in all areas. Coastal areas can be very humid.
95.
Mainly in spring but also during the summer months, Khamsin or Sharav heat wave
conditions may prevail for short periods. The spells are characterized by a rapid rise in
temperature, overcast skies and are broken by high winds. In the Sinai, severe sandstorms
may be encountered during these periods.
Terrain
96.
Along the Mediterranean, a coastal plain, greatly varying in width, stretches south
from the Turkish border with Syria to Gaza, frequently broken by lateral promontories
running down from the mountains to the sea. Further inland, hill/mountain ranges run parallel
to the coastal plain. Altitudes are generally in the 1000 meters bracket, but reach alpine
heights in the Lebanon Mountains (Al Qurnat as Sawda: 3360 m) and in the southern Sinai
(Mt. Catherine’s: 2642 m). The western hill/mountain range is interrupted by the extension of
the Great Rift Valley that runs through the Red Sea, Wadi Araba, Dead Sea (400 m below
sea level), Jordan-Bequa’a-Orontes Valleys north to Turkey.Another hill / mountain range
which peaks at the Anti-Lebanon (Mt. Hermon / Djebel al Sheikh 2814 m) parallels the Great
Rift Valley to the east. Further to the east lies the arid Northern Arabian (Syrian) Desert.
Living Accommodation
97.
A selection of living accommodation is available in all major cities and towns in the
Mission area. These include: hotels, pensions, furnished and unfurnished apartments.
Rents and prices of hotel rooms vary from place to place and depend upon the quality and
size of the accommodation provided, but the Mission subsistence allowance (per diem) paid
to UNMOs by the United Nations is usually sufficient to cover board and lodging.
98.
Living accommodation at the observation posts is normally provided in prefabricated
buildings or, as in the case of OGL observation posts, in substantial buildings. These are
24
equipped with a gas stove, kerosene or gas refrigerator, double bunks, mattresses and other
essential items for living in the field. Though the caravans afford adequate accommodation,
a sleeping bag is recommended for use during the winter season throughout the Mission
area. While he is on observation post duty, the UNMO is expected to cook and keep house
for him/her/herself. He may sometimes be subjected to hardship while on observation post
duty, particularly during periods of tension. Normally, there are at least two UNMOs on duty
at each observation post at the same time.
Electric Current
99.
In the whole of the UNTSO Mission area (Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syrian
Arab Republic) the electric current is 50 cycles, 220 volts, AC.
Food
100. Fresh vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products and other foodstuffs are
available throughout the Mission area. Imported items are expensive.
101. UNTSO maintains a Service Institute that carries a selective line of food, cigarettes,
sundries, toilet articles and liquor. Articles in this store are exempted from customs duty and
sales tax and can only be purchased for the sole use by UNTSO personnel and their
dependants. Appliances and attractive items may also be purchased through the Service
Institute. Any infringement of this rule may result in cancellation of this privilege and in
disciplinary action.
Medical, Hospital and Dental Facilities and Expenses
102. Arrangements are made by the UN to provide to UNMOs, during their assignment in
the Mission area only, coverage for the required medical examinations as well as other
medical services and hospitalisation. To qualify for coverage by UN, the illness or injury must
have occurred while the UNMO was in the area, either performing military duties or taking
authorized time-off, and be attributable to conditions and hazards peculiar to the area of
assignment.
103. UN policy is that local medical facilities are to be used whenever available, or the
Force Medical Support Units as available at UNIFIL or UNDOF. In several situations there
are UN designated practitioners but UNMOs are free to choose their own doctor if they so
desire. Arrangements are provided for medical support to UNMOs posted in OGL/LOB from
UNIFIL and UNMOs posted to OGG, OGG-D and OGG-T from UNDOF.
Recreational, Cultural and Welfare Activities
104. A Sports Recreation and Welfare Committee (SRWC), elected by the members of the
Mission, organise recreational and welfare activities at UNTSO Headquarters, at field
stations these activities are organized by local committees/arrangements.
105. All major towns and cities in the area offer cultural activities and sightseeing tours to
areas of historical and religious interest.
Mail
106.
The UNMO's personal mail should be addressed to him/her as follows:
(Name/Rank of UNMO)
UNTSO
P.O. Box 490
OR
(Name/Rank of UNMO)
UNTSO
P.O. Box 5854
25
Jerusalem 91004
Israel
New York, New York
10163-5854 USA
Note: Only letters are accepted at UN Headquarters, New York for dispatch to the UNMO
via UNTSO Headquarters in Jerusalem. Boxes and bulky mail will be returned to the
senders.
UNTSO Transportation
107. Official transportation for UNMOs in the Mission area is provided by the Mission's
fleet of vehicles. Vehicles not being utilized for immediate operational requirement may be
made available on a limited basis to UNMOs for non-duty mileage travel for which there are
standard charges per kilometer. (5000 km annual liberty privilege with lower price and after
5000 km on higher price.)
108. Family members and dependants of Military Observers may travel in a UN vehicle if
documentation is submitted for approval before travel commences.
109. All military observers are reminded that the private visits of military dependents are at
their own risk and expense, the Organization accepts no responsibility for the dependents of
military personal in the mission area.
TRAVEL AND MISSION SUBSISTENCE ALLOWANCE
Entitlement
110.
During his/her UNTSO assignment the UNMO is entitled to:
a.
Mission subsistence allowance (MSA) while on the Mission area.
b.
Travel Subsistence Allowance (TSA) while on official travel status on
appointment, return travel and other travel outside the Mission area of official
duty. The UNMO is considered as being in travel status until he reports to
UNTSO Headquarters at Jerusalem and entitlement for payment of Mission
subsistence allowance commences at that time only.
Travel Subsistence
111. Upon arrival at UNTSO, a claim form (F.10) for travel subsistence, and incidental
travel expenses should be completed and submitted, with supporting original receipts, to the
Chief Civilian Personnel Officer for certification. TSA for authorized for rest stopovers and
terminal expenses are made on an “actually incurred basis” upon submission of original
receipts. The amount reimbursed cannot exceed the ceiling established in the relevant
Administrative Instructions (ST/AI’s) and ICSC circulars.
Mission Subsistence Allowance
112. The allowance is designed to cover board and lodging expenses, plus incidentals,
and constitutes the entire United Nations financial liability towards the cost of housing and
food for the personal requirements of the UNMO. The procedures involved in processing
mission subsistence allowance for military observers are similar to those of international
staff. Information is provided to the Finance Section at least on a monthly basis so that
changes can be made in the staff file maintenance in Progen. The present rates of the
Mission Subsistence Allowance (MSA) vary for each outstation due to the varying costs of
living in the different locations. MSA rates are subject to regular review and adjustment and
the actual rates are available on the UN web site.
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Example, November 2011:
JERUSALEM
TIBERIAS
DAMASCUS
TYRE
BEIRUT
CAIRO
106 $
95 $
99 $
86 $
104 $
78 $
113. An advance of up to USD1100.00 is paid upon the arrival of the UNMO in the Mission
area to assist him/her in his/her initial installation expenses. This advance includes a
USD100.00 clothing allowance for the first six-month period. The remaining USD1000.00 will
be deducted from the first monthly payment of MSA (due at the end of each month).
114. A UNMO hospitalized in the Mission area shall only be entitled to the accommodation
portion of the Mission subsistence allowance.
Withholding of Mission Subsistence Allowance
115. The Chief of Mission Support may, with the approval of the Chief of Staff, withhold a
portion of the Mission Allowance of a UNMO:
a. To cover damage caused to United Nations property through the UNMO's
negligence under UN Staff Rule 112.3 pending final approval from UN HQ New
York.
b. To cover cost of private telephone calls and liberty mileage incurred by the UNMO
during his/her assignment with UNTSO for which Finance had no concrete
breakdown of the charges at the time of repatriation of the UNMO.
c. Pending receipt of export documentations for the Privately Owned Vehicle (POV) if
applicable.
d. Settlement will be processed as soon as all charges are recorded in the Finance
books and balance will be transferred to the observer’s account by cheque or
through wire transfer.
e. The final MSA calculation should not be processed without the completed check out
form returned to the Military Personnel Office.
Currency Regulations
116. It is the responsibility of the observer to learn and abide by the currency regulations
of both his/her country and the countries in the Mission area. This applies to exchanging
foreign currency on the local market. Violations of these regulations will result in disciplinary
action and may be reported to the UNMO's government. As a rule, all money transactions
are to be made through a legally operated bank or authorized moneychanger. Receipts are
to be kept to show the local authorities if requested.
COMPENSATION FOR DEATH, INJURY OR ILLNESS
117. The United Nations provides each UNMO with maximum compensation coverage for
death, injury or illness which is determined by the Secretary-General to be attributable to the
performance of official duties on behalf of the United Nations in the amount of $70,000, or
twice his/her basic annual salary, less allowances, whichever is greater.
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118. The maximum compensation shall be awarded by the Secretary-General, under the
conditions prescribed above in the event of death or total disability. A proportionate amount
shall be awarded in cases of partial disability. No compensations shall be awarded when
such death, injury or illness has been occasioned by:
a. Wilful misconduct of the UNMO; or
b. The UNMO's wilful intent to bring about death, injury or illness of him/herself or
another.
119. Death, injury or illness of a UNMO shall be deemed to be attributable to the
performance of official duties on behalf of the United Nations in the absence of any willful
misconduct or willful intent when:
a. The death, injury or illness resulted as a natural incident of performing official duties
in the course of United Nations assignment;
b. The death, injury or illness was directly due to the presence of the UNMO in
accordance with United Nations assignment in the area involving special hazards to
the UNMO's health or security and occurred as a result of such hazards; or
c. The death, injury or illness occurred as direct result of travelling by means of
transportation furnished by, or at the expense of, the United Nations in connection
with performance of official duties only. This provision shall not extend to motorvehicle transportation provided by United Nations or otherwise, and undertaken by
the UNMO or sanctioned or authorised by the United Nations solely on the request
and for the convenience of the UNMO.The compensations payable under the rules
governing entitlement shall be the sole compensation payable by the United Nations
in the respect of death, injury or illness.
Compensation Claims
120. A claim for compensation by or on behalf of a UNMO should be submitted through
the Chief of Mission Support to the United Nations Secretary-General by the UNMO, his/her
dependants or his/her government within four months of the observer's death, injury or onset
of illness. In exceptional circumstances, the Secretary-General may accept for consideration
a claim made at a later date. The Secretary-General has appointed an Advisory Board on
Compensation Claims (ABCC) to review claims filed under the rules governing entitlement
and to report to him/her regarding such claims or appeals. The determination of the injury or
illness and the type and degree of incapacity and of the relevant award shall be decided on
the basis of the documentary evidence and in accordance with the provisions established by
the Secretary-General.
121. Except for payment of reasonable medical and hospital expenses in the field and
transportation or burial of the remains in case of death, the United Nations shall not be
responsible and shall not pay compensation for death, injury or illness not attributable to the
performance of official duties.
122. Doubtful cases shall be given sympathetic consideration, taking into account all
relevant factors, including the possibility that such death, injury or illness could have
occurred during the performance of official duties.
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Payee
123. In the event of disability deemed by the Secretary-General to be attributable to
United Nations service, the total compensation awarded by the United Nations shall be
specifically payable to the UNMO concerned under the terms of the agreement entered into
between the United Nations and the government covering that particular award.
Death
124. In the event of death in service of the United Nations, the award of compensation will
follow a similar procedure, but the payment will be made to the duly designated beneficiary
of the UNMO, subject to the requirements of the law of the UNMO's own country, if no
beneficiary has been named, the payment will be made to the deceased UNMO's estate. In
either case, payment will be made by the United Nations through the UNMO's government.
COMPENSATION FOR LOSS OF PERSONAL EFFECTS
Entitlement
125. Administrative Instruction ST/AI/149 sets out the provisions concerning
compensation for loss or theft of personal effects incurred in the course of duty in the
Mission area. This instruction is available at UNTSO Headquarters.
DEPENDANTS OF UN MILITARY OBSERVERS
126.
In accordance with current United Nations Policy Directive:
a. UNTSO acknowledges the added value of family members accompanying military
personnel to the mission area. However, the UN does not accept any responsibility
for dependants. Hence, it is up to the respective TCC to consider support
arrangements in consultation with their respective embassy.
b. Military personnel who choose to bring dependants to the mission area should note
that the United Nations does not assist with formalities and does not accept any
responsibility in times of crisis.
ALTERNATIVE SOURCES OF INFORMATION
Books and reading materiel
127.
Recommended reading:
a. Peacekeeper’s Handbook (1978), International Peace Academy.
b. The Blue Helmets: A Review of United Nations Peacekeeping (Third Edition, New
York, 1996), United Nations.
c. Thomas L. Friedman: From Beirut to Jerusalem (2000), ISBN 0-385-41372-6
Suggested Internet Sites
128.
For up-to-date information on the Internet go to:
a. http://www.un.org
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b. http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/untso/index.html
c. http://www.untso.org or http://untso.unmissions.org/
30
Annex A
TRANSFER REQUEST
a. During a basic (12 months) tour of duty (TOD). The UNMO may serve six months in
each of two duty stations. If an UNMO is selected for a staff position or as team
leader, he will normally remain at his/her initial duty station for his/her complete
TOD. One third of all UNMOs should be prepared to spend their entire TOD in the
same country;
b. During an extended TOD (up to 24 months) The UNMOs may serve in three
different duty Stations unless a staff appointment is acquired. In such case the
UNMO will generally be required to serve from five to twelve months in the staff
position;
c. Transfer Limitation UNMOs with less than five months remaining until their DDM
should not normally expect to be reassigned to a new Station;
d. Staff Appointment Limitation, An UNMO who holds a staff appointment and is
subsequently transferred, is not automatically granted a staff appointment in the
next duty station;
e. No Staff Appointment, An UNMO who does not hold a staff appointment is not
normally granted additional periods of service beyond six months in the same duty
station. However, at the request of the UNMO and on the basis of operational
requirement, an UNMO can be granted a maximum additional period of six months
at his/her duty station. CMPO will evaluate each case on its own merits.
Transfer Request
An UNMO who wishes to influence his/her transfer is to submit a written request via the
chain of command to the CMPO. The request is to indicate three preferences and be
forwarded by the end of the second month of an UNMO’s tour (fourth month before the
month of anticipated transfer). A request received after the publication of the proposed
posting and transfer list is not normally considered. The posting and transfer list is published
on the 15th day at each month and the transfer take effect the following month. An UNMO's
request for transfer is only affected when it is within the interests of UNTSO.
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Annex B
STAFF APPOINTMENTS
Staff positions are in order to provide maximum opportunity for all personnel to obtain a staff
or team leader position and consistent with operational requirements, the following
principles, criteria and procedures apply:
Principles
i.
UNTSO HQ staff appointments are normally filled by UNMOs from all
participating nationalities and from all Stations/Liaison Offices within
the Mission Area;
ii.
Outstation staff appointments are normally filled by UNMOs from within
the Station in question, but other candidates may also apply;
iii.
Station staff appointments, including those of Station Chiefs, will
normally be limited to a period of twelve months or less;
iv.
Senior staff appointments within UNTSO HQ are normally made for a
minimum of one year without any requirement to complete UNMO
duties in the field;
v.
UNMOs with less than five months remaining until their DDM will not
normally be assigned to a staff position;
vi.
Identification of those UNMOs destined for staff positions should
commence as early as possible since staff vacancies are published
three months in advance. Ideally, individuals should be identified
within three or four months after arrival and the CMPO should be
advised as soon as possible. These individuals should be encouraged
to apply for staff appointments;
vii.
Selection for a staff appointment will automatically cancel previous
plans with regard to a station transfer;
viii.
An UNMO who holds a staff appointment and is subsequently
transferred (after 12 months in the appointment), is not automatically
granted a staff appointment in the next duty station;
ix.
An UNMO who does not hold a staff appointment is not normally
granted additional periods of service beyond six months in the same
duty station. However, at the request of the UNMO and on the basis of
operational requirement, an UNMO can be granted a maximum
additional period of six months at his/her duty station. CMPO will
evaluate each case on its own merits.
Criteria
x.
The best-qualified and most suitable individual will be selected for the
proposed staff appointment. Consideration will be given to achieving a
reasonable national balance;
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i. An UNMO, (other than a Station Chief) who has completed the maximum 12month period in a staff appointment, may be requested to revert to UNMO
status for his/her last period of duty, and is normally transferred to another
Station;
ii. It should be noted that any UNMO with a staff position, may be transferred,
at any time, to a staff position, or a Station as a Staff Officer or UNMO, for
operational reasons.
Procedures
iii. UNMOs may apply for any specific staff appointment at the above locations.
Applications are to be addressed to CMPO and submitted through the
normal chain of command. Upcoming vacancies will be published three
months in advance in monthly routine orders. In the event of an unexpected
vacancy, stations will be advised as soon as possible. Vacancies can also
be predicted by the current incumbent's DDM as shown in the "UNTSO
Organization" published monthly in UNTSO Routine Order;
iv. Station Chiefs are to comment upon the qualifications of an UNMO applying
for such a staff appointment. Comments should specifically relate to their
qualifications in regard to the staff appointment in question;
v. CMPO may request Station Chiefs to nominate candidates for these staff
appointments. In such requests National balance is to be considered.
Procedures to be followed are as outlined in sub-para (b) above;
vi. Appointments are to be published by the CMPO by e-mail and/or UNTSO
Routine Order;
vii. Final decision of the appointment is taken by Deputy Chief of Staff.
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Annex C
CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT GUIDE LIST
Winter clothing
Service dress
Battle dress
Raincoat
Gloves
Boots (good leather)*
Boots (rubber)*
Pullovers
Parka or wind jackets
Woollen scarf
Summer clothing
Service dress
Bush shirts (khaki or green drill)
Shirts (khaki or green drill)
Swim trunks
Miscellaneous
Combat uniform (as appropriate)
Sleeping bag (with linen)
Web belt and haversack
Water bottles (thermos type)*
Sunglasses
Torch (battery operated)*
Compass
Full national-issue NBC equipment
First-aid kit
National issue ballistic vest and helmet (if issued)
Civilian clothes, including sports jacket and slacks, are required and can be laundered locally
at reasonable prices. Dinner jackets may be brought but are not often required.

May be available for purchase locally or at the UNTSO Service Institute.
34
Annex D
Recommended List of Minimum Items for Run Pack
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