detachee

A detachee, or détaché, is a person who remains employed by a home organization but is temporarily assigned to another organization, project, or mission. The arrangement is commonly used in government administrations, international organizations, and multinational corporations to provide expertise, support, or governance without transferring permanent staff.

The term originates from the French détaché, meaning detached or assigned away. In practice, a detachee continues to hold their home contract, rank, and benefits while performing duties under the host organization’s supervision. The appointment is typically governed by a formal agreement specifying duration, duties, reporting lines, supervision, and financial arrangements—often including salary payments shared between the home and host organizations.

Detachees may be deployed for a range of purposes: policy work, project management, technical expertise, capacity building, or administrative support. They facilitate knowledge transfer and coordination across institutions while allowing the home organization to retain control over personnel policy.

Rights and obligations of detachees vary by country and organization but commonly include alignment with the host’s code of conduct, safeguarding of confidential information, and compliance with both organizations’ rules. Depending on the arrangement, detachees may continue to receive home benefits, or receive prorated benefits from the host, and may be eligible for allowances or relocation support.

At the end of the assignment, detachees typically return to their home organization, resume their former role, or transition to another position as arranged. The detachment model can affect career development, signaling experience across entities and potentially expanding professional networks.