As an integral part of the Office of the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), the Legal Liaison Office provides advice on all legal matters arising within UNOG and United Nations funds and programmes in Geneva, in close cooperation with the Office of Legal Affairs at Headquarters.

The core functions of the Legal Liaison Office are as follows:

Providing advice to the Director-General of UNOG

Dealing with the Permanent Mission of Switzerland on host country matters

Answering legal questions from the UNOG Administration, departments and services, and United Nations funds and programmes

Coordinating with the Legal Advisers of the Geneva-based United Nations family organizations

On an ad hoc basis, the Senior Legal Adviser coordinates with the Legal Advisers of the Geneva-based United Nations family organizations on matters of common interest under the respective headquarters agreements. On specific issues, and based on consultation with United Nations system organizations, LLO may assume a leading role in the subsequent discussions with host country officials.

Participating in various panels and commissions

Cooperating with permanent missions

LLO deals with permanent missions on politically sensitive matters arising from participation of government and civil society representatives at United Nations meetings and conferences, in particular:

• The Commission on Human Rights
• Press conferences
• Public information sessions
• Governing boards and councils of specialized agencies meeting at the Palais des Nations.