Provision of operational, executive and administrative personnel (OPEX):

Abstract

The Operational, Executive, and Administrative Personnel (OPEX) programme, initiated by the United Nations General Assembly under Resolution 1256 (XIII), has gained significant traction among African Governments, particularly newly independent nations. Initially experimental, the programme was deemed successful after two years and was subsequently established on a continuing basis under Resolution 1530 (XV). OPEX distinguishes itself from other technical assistance programmes in two key ways: (1) it extends beyond the traditional scope of the United Nations, involving specialized agencies when necessary, and (2) OPEX appointees are not "international civil servants" but serve directly under the recipient government, governed by a tripartite agreement between the UN, the government, and the appointee. The programme has faced challenges, including limited funding and difficulties in sourcing qualified candidates, but has grown steadily, with 48 posts filled by April 1962 and projections to reach 80 by year-end. A notable feature is the emphasis on training national successors, though progress in this area has been slow due to a lack of qualified local personnel.