A/RES/53/221 Page 9 3. Approves the step-by-step approach to performance recognition as set forth in paragraphs 24 to 34 of the report of the Secretary-General on performance management;8 4. Takes note of the proposals on the need to address the issue of underperformance in paragraphs 35 to 43 of the report referred to in paragraph 3 above, and requests the Secretary-General to submit revised policy proposals to deal systematically and effectively with underperformance; 5. Notes with concern that no comprehensive and systematic career development policy has yet been developed by the Secretary-General, and reiterates its request that such a policy be developed on a priority basis in the interest of maintaining a strong and efficient international civil service, in accordance with the principles enshrined in Article 101 of the Charter; 6. Requests the Secretary-General, in the further enhancement of the career development system of the Organization, to implement a transparent promotion policy, augmented by the effective use of a simplified and appropriate performance appraisal system, adequate training and competitive examinations, in order to provide for the recognition of competence and outstanding performance and to facilitate the continuous professional growth of staff at all levels; 7. Notes the initiatives undertaken so far by the Secretary-General with regard to staff training; 8. Requests the Secretary-General to consider opening staff training courses, as appropriate, to members of permanent missions, within the framework of the approved budget, and without prejudice to meeting the staff training needs of the Organization; 9. Also requests the Secretary-General to streamline the personnel manual; VII EMPLOYMENT OF RETIREES 1. Endorses the observations and recommendations on the employment of retirees, contained in the report of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions;2 2. Requests the Secretary-General to have recourse to the employment of retirees only if the operational requirements of the Organization cannot be met by existing staff; VIII CONSULTANTS AND INDIVIDUAL CONTRACTORS 1. Endorses the new definitions of consultants and individual contractors as contained in the report of the Secretary-General on comprehensive guidelines for the use of consultants in the Secretariat;9 8 A/53/266. 9 See A/53/385. /...