Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Policy

Comprehensive policy to prevent, respond to, and eliminate sexual exploitation and abuse in all organizational activities, aligned with UN and IASC standards.

1

Purpose

This policy establishes the organizational standards and procedures to prevent, respond to, and eliminate sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) in all activities of Saraya Al-Rahma for Relief, Reconstruction, and Development (SRRD). It aligns with the United Nations Secretary-General's Bulletin (ST/SGB/2003/13) and the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Six Core Principles on PSEA.

2

Scope

This policy applies to all SRRD staff, board members, and volunteers; contractors, consultants, suppliers, and service providers; and partners and third parties engaged with SRRD.

3

Definitions

Sexual Exploitation: Any abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust for sexual purposes.
Sexual Abuse: Actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature.
SEA: Collective term for sexual exploitation and abuse.
4

Core Principles

SRRD adopts and enforces the IASC Six Core Principles:

  1. SEA constitutes gross misconduct and grounds for termination.
  2. Sexual activity with children (under 18) is strictly prohibited.
  3. Exchange of money, jobs, goods, or services for sex is prohibited.
  4. Sexual relationships with beneficiaries are strongly discouraged.
  5. Staff must report concerns or suspicions of SEA.
  6. Managers must create and maintain an environment that prevents SEA.
5

Preventive Measures

Recruitment

Background checks and reference verification

Training

Mandatory induction and annual refresher training

Awareness

Display of commitments in offices and project sites

Partnerships

PSEA clauses in all agreements

6

Reporting Mechanisms

Confidential Channels

Hotline, email, or suggestion boxes

Protection

Whistleblowers and survivors are protected

Survivor-Centered Approach

Confidential handling of cases

7

Response Procedures

  • Immediate action upon receiving a complaint
  • Referral of survivors to appropriate services
  • Disciplinary action, including termination
  • Reporting of criminal acts where safe and appropriate
8

Accountability & Monitoring

  • Designated PSEA Focal Point
  • Regular monitoring and risk assessments
  • Annual review of the policy
9

Commitment Statement

SRRD commits to a zero-tolerance policy for SEA. All staff and partners share responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity, dignity, and respect in serving affected communities.