CERN’s new internal justice system is now in force
The reform marks an important step towards a more modern, accessible, professional and independent system of internal justice
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CERN’s new internal justice system is now officially in force. Developed through close collaboration between the Management, the Staff Association and external experts, and through a process of concertation, this reform marks an important step towards a more modern, accessible, professional and independent system of internal justice.
The new internal justice system aims to clarify the options available to personnel and strengthen the fair and consistent handling of disputes, reports and declarations.
What is new?
1. Administrative decisions
If you disagree with an administrative decision, you may submit a request for review in the first instance, allowing the Administration to reconsider its decision, using a simpler and faster process than before. This step is now mandatory before lodging a formal appeal.
Appeals continue to be examined by the Joint Advisory Appeals Board (JAAB), which now benefits from an external professional Chair and Deputy Chair. Its members are now jointly designated by the Management and the Staff Association.
2. Disciplinary proceedings
The Joint Advisory Disciplinary Board (JADB) has also been strengthened with an external professional Chair and Deputy Chair, as well as with CERN members jointly designated by the Director-General and the Staff Association.
Detailed procedures for appeals and disciplinary matters are set out in Administrative Circular No. 34.
3. Potential misconduct, including harassment and fraud
Potential misconduct must be reported through one of the available official support channels, which include the line management, the Head of HR and the Head of the new Internal Investigations Service directly.
This dedicated professional service now handles all alleged misconduct cases under Operational Circular No. 12, ensuring a consistent approach across the Organization. Reports may also be submitted through the whistleblowing hotline.
4. Conflicts of interest and ethics
A new Conflict of Interest Disclosure form enables members of the CERN personnel to disclose potential conflicts of interest at an early stage so that they can be assessed and addressed appropriately.
The new internal justice system also forms part of CERN’s broader Ethics and Integrity Framework, which includes mandatory ethics training for all CERN personnel.
5. Support and early resolution
The new Internal Justice Secretariat, reporting directly to the Director-General, supports the appeals and disciplinary boards and serves as a central source of information on internal justice procedures.
Where appropriate, personnel and contributors are encouraged to seek early and amicable resolution through the official support channels, including alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and the Ombud.
Where to find information
The Internal Justice Secretariat and Internal Investigations Service websites provide guidance, practical information and links to the relevant rules, including Administrative Circular No. 34 and Operational Circular No. 12.