PHIG Policy Framework v1.2 · Policy 20 · Adopted 1 September 2026 · References: ASF Policy 8; UN Secretary-General’s Bulletin ST/SGB/2003/13; IASC Six Core Principles; USAID ADS 303 PSEA standard provision; EU DG ECHO and INTPA PSEAH requirements; WHO policy on preventing and addressing sexual misconduct
1. Purpose and scope
Zero tolerance of sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment by anyone acting for PHIG, towards beneficiaries, participants, learners, colleagues or anyone else. This policy complements the Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities policies and the Code of Conduct. Applies to the Board, the Director, staff, consultants, volunteers, experts, partners and suppliers of PHIG and all platforms of its network.
2. Policy
- Sexual exploitation and abuse constitute gross misconduct and grounds for immediate termination and referral to the authorities.
- Sexual activity with children (under 18) is prohibited regardless of local age of majority or consent; mistaken belief in age is no defence.
- Exchange of money, employment, goods, services, grades, certificates, verdicts or assistance for sex, including sexual favours or other forms of humiliating, degrading or exploitative behaviour, is prohibited.
- Sexual relationships between persons acting for PHIG and beneficiaries, participants or learners, which are based on inherently unequal power, undermine PHIG’s credibility and are prohibited.
- Sexual harassment of colleagues, experts, authors or anyone else is prohibited.
- Every person has a duty to report concerns or suspicions through the Whistleblowing Procedure or to the Safeguarding Lead; reports are handled with a survivor-centred approach; retaliation is prohibited.
- Safe recruitment, induction and training on PSEAH for everyone, with refresher training every two years.
- Partners and subcontractors adopt equivalent standards by contract; incidents involving them are managed jointly and reported to donors as required.
3. Procedures
- Reports acknowledged within 24 hours; survivor safety and support first; investigation by trained, impartial persons; decision within 30 working days where possible; donor notification per the grant (e.g., USAID within 24 hours of a credible allegation where required).
Responsibilities
Board; Safeguarding Lead (also PSEAH focal point); Director.
Review
Every two years and when donor rules change.
Part of the PHIG Policy Framework. Breaches and concerns may be reported under the Whistleblowing Procedure to info@accreditation.ge (subject “Confidential — integrity”).