AWEDO safeguarding commitments for preventing and responding to exploitation, abuse, harassment and other harm connected to its people, programs and partners.
AWEDO expects its staff, volunteers, consultants, representatives and relevant partners to act in ways that protect children and adults from exploitation, abuse, harassment, neglect and other harm associated with organizational activities.
Safeguarding is considered in recruitment, orientation, conduct expectations, program design, partner engagement, risk assessment and community communication.
Concerns should be raised promptly through accessible channels. Sensitive reports should be handled confidentially on a need-to-know basis and without retaliation against good-faith reporters.
Responses should prioritize safety, dignity, confidentiality, informed choice and appropriate referral. Program staff should not conduct unnecessary questioning of survivors.
Sexual exploitation and abuse by personnel connected to humanitarian or development work is incompatible with AWEDO’s standards. Authority, assistance, employment, goods or services must never be exchanged for sexual activity or other exploitative benefit.
Children require additional protection. Contact, communications, photography, data collection and activities involving children should be designed around their best interests, safety, dignity and age-appropriate consent or permission requirements.