Part of the ASF policy framework, aligned with the equivalent PHIG policy. To raise a concern: see the ASF Complaints and Reporting Channel.
Sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and sexual harassment by anyone connected to ASF are gross misconduct and grounds for dismissal. Owner: Operations Liaison, PSEAH Focal Point.
Definitions
- Sexual exploitation: any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, power or trust for sexual purposes, including profiting financially, socially or politically.
- Sexual abuse: actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, by force or under unequal or coercive conditions.
- Sexual harassment: unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours or other verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, in person or online, that offends, humiliates or intimidates.
Core standards
These standards follow the six core principles of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC).
- Sexual exploitation and abuse are gross misconduct and grounds for termination.
- Sexual activity with anyone under 18 is prohibited, whatever the local age of consent. Mistaken belief about age is no defence.
- Exchanging money, employment, goods, services or assistance for sex — including sex workers — is prohibited.
- Sexual relationships with participants (patients, research participants, trainees, council members) are strongly discouraged because of the power imbalance; any such relationship must be declared.
- Anyone who has a concern about sexual exploitation or abuse by a colleague must report it.
- Managers must create and maintain an environment that prevents sexual exploitation and abuse.
Harassment at work
ASF applies the protections of the French Labour Code (Code du travail) and French gender equality law. Harassment by or of staff, partners or visitors, including online and at events, is prohibited. Complaints are handled confidentially and without retaliation.
Prevention
- Safer recruitment: reference checks covering safeguarding conduct and a self-declaration for every new hire.
- PSEAH training on induction and every year; this Policy included in every partner agreement.
- Mixed-gender teams where possible for fieldwork with participants.
- Accessible feedback and complaint channels for participants, explained in plain French and English.
Reporting and survivor support
Report to the PSEAH Focal Point, the ASF Complaints and Reporting Channel or the Chair within 24 hours. A survivor-centred approach applies: safety first, confidentiality, respect for the survivor’s choices and referral to medical, psychosocial and legal support. Investigations follow Policy 14 and donor disclosure follows Policy 15.