ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 questions IO neutrality through the material and conceptual formats of their productions—reports, factsheets, maps, training material, guidelines, websites, online databases, e-learning platforms, lessons learned, best practices, etc. In this chapter, the focus is less on the discourse developed by IOs than their supposedly neutral formats. Based on case studies essentially derived from the ILO, UNEP and UN peace operations, the chapter first sheds light on the mechanisms by which IOs produce, support and circulate neutrality. It shows that the so-called neutral character of these formats and modes of diffusion contribute to depoliticizing their content and the role of IOs as discourse producers. It then addresses the process of turning neutral information into political recommendations, understanding the IO advisory role as a depoliticization practice.
