Protection from sexual exploitation and abuse policy

Who it applies to

The policy applies to all employees, temporary personnel, contractors and subcontractors at all times, on and off duty, at work and in accommodation. It reflects the standards the United Nations and humanitarian partners expect of their contractors.

Key requirements

• Sexual exploitation and abuse

  Any actual or attempted abuse of vulnerability, power or trust for sexual purposes, and any actual or threatened sexual physical intrusion, is prohibited.

• Children

  Sexual activity with anyone under 18 is prohibited, regardless of the local age of consent. Mistaken belief in age is no defense.

• Transactional sex

  Exchanging money, employment, goods, services or assistance for sex, or any degrading or exploitative behavior, is prohibited.

• Relationships with beneficiaries

  Sexual relationships with beneficiaries of assistance, or others who depend on Accenti's work, are strongly discouraged because they rest on unequal power.

• Duty to report

  Anyone with a concern or suspicion of sexual exploitation or abuse, by anyone, reports it immediately to the PSEA focal point.

• Investigation and support

  Reports may be anonymous and are handled confidentially. The survivor's safety comes first, and allegations are investigated promptly by trained people.

Reference framework

• UN Secretary-General's Bulletin ST/SGB/2003/13 on special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and abuse
• The IASC Six Core Principles relating to sexual exploitation and abuse
• The UN Supplier Code of Conduct and client PSEA requirements