General Legal

The General Legal Section (Focal Point A) is primarily responsible for:

Administrative and Financial Matters

Focal Point A provides legal advice and support to all units of the Secretariat to ensure that their activities (particularly those regarding procurement, finance, contracts, audit and other administrative matters) are conducted in accordance with the applicable rules.

In relation to procurement, Focal Point A advises on the legality of procedures for the procurement of goods and services by the Agency, and reviews and clears contracts and agreements entered into by the Agency. OLA is also a member of the Procurement Authorization Committee (PAC).

In relation to finance, Focal Point A advises on issues relating to the Financial Regulations and Financial Rules, and reviews the acceptance of voluntary contributions to the Agency in the light of relevant rules, particularly the Rules Regarding Voluntary Contributions to the Agency and Financial Rule 106.01.

Focal Point A also advises on other private international law agreements to which the Agency is a party.

Headquarters and Host Government

Focal Point A also deals with issues arising in the interpretation and implementation of the Headquarters Agreement with the Austrian Government as well as the negotiation and conclusion of other international agreements, including Host Government Agreements, for the meetings and other activities held by the Agency in other countries throughout the world.

Relationship and Cooperation Agreements

Focal Point A advises on the negotiation and implementation of Relationship and Cooperation Agreements concluded with Governments, the United Nations and its specialized agencies and other intergovernmental organizations.

Personnel Matters

In relation to personnel matters, Focal Point A advises on the interpretation and application of the Staff Regulations and Rules, on appeals and disciplinary matters, and on personnel-related administrative issues. It also prepares the submissions of the Agency on complaints taken to the ILO Administrative Tribunal in Geneva.

Privileges and Immunities

Focal Point A provides advice on issues arising in the interpretation and implementation of the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities as well as the Headquarters Agreement with the Austrian Government and ensures respect for the legal status and the privileges and immunities of the Agency, the representatives of its Member States, its officials and persons performing services on its behalf.