ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates a two-fold question: how IO depoliticization practices alter responsibility attribution within the multilateral system and how avoiding responsibility also reinforces depoliticization. Exploring these dynamics in a variety of contexts including the ILO, UNAIDS, UNEP, the UN Secretariat, the World Bank and the WTO, it first shows how depoliticization blurs representative ties within IOs thereby hindering responsibility attribution. It then analyzes the multiple forms of blame-shifting toward other actors, be it IO single member states or individuals, while shedding light on processes of responsibility denial. It finally demonstrates how depoliticization practices can help maintain the status quo and existing power relationships.
