03 / Chapter three
Case Studies
Stories of ADB personnel
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The case studies discussed in this section reflect some trends and patterns of conflicts raised with the Office of the Ombudsperson (OOMP) in 2025. They also exhibit the application of OOMP’s standards when performing its functions to the ADB community.
Case studies are informed by trends observed during our data analysis and are meant for illustrative purposes only. They are a combination of different cases brought to OOMP during the year and do not necessarily represent any individual, department, or specific situation. Each case study includes the ombudsperson’s perspective, which looks beneath the surface of the situation, and highlights how accessing OOMP’s services early can help staff think through options before concerns become more difficult to address.
Case Study #1
The Importance
of Being Heard
and Recognized
What happens when you’re hired for your expertise—but still have to prove you deserve to be heard?
Read the case study
Case Study #2
Working Around
the Problem
Sometimes, an unhealthy workplace pattern is hard to see because everyone has learned to work around it.
Read the case study
Case Study #3
The Importance of Enabling Change
A routine change in responsibilities can create confusion when the story behind the change is left unexplained.
Read the case study
