Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Policy
The purpose of this policy is to prevent and respond to sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) within our organization and its affiliated partners, in compliance with WHO and UNHCR guidelines. The policy aims to protect the dignity and rights of all individuals, especially those most vulnerable, and to establish a safe and respectful environment in all our operations.
This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, consultants, contractors, partners, and any other representatives of the organization, including those engaged in activities in direct contact with beneficiaries.
Sexual Exploitation: Any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust for sexual purposes, including profiting monetarily, socially, or politically from the sexual exploitation of another.
Sexual Abuse: The actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions.
Child Safeguarding: Actions taken to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harm, including sexual exploitation and abuse.
Beneficiaries: Individuals who receive assistance or services from the organization, including but not limited to, refugees, internally displaced persons, and vulnerable community members.
Zero Tolerance Policy
The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of sexual exploitation and abuse. Any personnel found to have engaged in such behavior will be subject to disciplinary action, including termination of employment and legal prosecution.
Code of Conduct
- Personnel must not engage in any form of sexual activity with beneficiaries, particularly children (under 18 years of age), regardless of local age of consent laws.
- Personnel must not exchange money, employment, goods, or services for sexual favors, including any forms of humiliating or degrading behavior.
- Personnel must treat all individuals with respect and dignity, avoiding any form of abuse of power or exploitation.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Managers: Ensure understanding and compliance with the PSEA policy, facilitate training, and address SEA concerns promptly and effectively. All personnel adhere to the PSEA policy, participate in training, and report any concerns or breaches of the policy.
Reporting Mechanisms
- Establish safe, confidential, and accessible reporting channels for SEA concerns, available to all personnel and beneficiaries.
- Reporting mechanisms include a dedicated email address, hotline, and in-person reporting options. Information on reporting channels will be disseminated widely among staff and communities.
Response Protocols
- All reports of SEA will be taken seriously and handled promptly, confidentially, and impartially.
- An investigation team, including the designated PSEA focal point, will conduct investigations following a survivor-centered approach, ensuring the safety, dignity, and privacy of all parties involved.
- Survivors will be provided with immediate support, including medical care, psychosocial support, and legal assistance as appropriate.
Monitoring and Compliance
- Regular monitoring and evaluation of PSEA compliance will be conducted through internal audits and external reviews.
- A compliance report will be submitted to the Board of Directors annually, detailing the implementation of the PSEA policy and any incidents addressed.
Partnerships and Collaboration
- All partners and contractors must adhere to this PSEA policy as a condition of their engagement with the organization.
- PSEA compliance will be included in all partnership agreements, and partners will be required to report any SEA incidents involving their staff or operations.
Sanctions and Disciplinary Actions
- Any personnel found guilty of SEA will face disciplinary actions, including termination and legal proceedings.
- False allegations made with malicious intent will also be subject to disciplinary action.
Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect any changes in international standards, organizational needs, or lessons learned from implementation.
Survivor-Centered Approach
The organization is committed to a survivor-centered approach in handling SEA allegations. This includes ensuring the safety, confidentiality, and dignity of survivors, providing them with appropriate support, and involving them in decision-making about their care and assistance.
