A New Theoretical Framework for Multicultural Workforce Motivation in the Context of International Organizations

This research investigates the impact of culture, leadership, and power on staff motivation in selected international organizations (IOs) and develops a theoretical framework to assist with the practice of workforce motivation. Utilizing critical theory as a paradigm of inquiry, the study's philosophical perspective leans heavily on "phenomenology." Concern for understanding the cultural aspect led to the result of utilizing critical ethnography methodology. Moreover, three qualitative methods were used: semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and, non-participant observations. Twenty-two supervisors, and the same number of staff, from the World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Trade Centre (ITC), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the World Health Organization (WHO) took part in interviews and focus groups. Non-participatory observations were also carried out on a 3-day working schedule for the four IOs. For the first time in the existing literature, the findings of this research have established a theoretical framework which demonstrates linkages between concepts of culture, leadership, and power on staff motivation.