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Policy on the Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA-H)

Purpose

This policy outlines the guiding principles of the VİCDAN Foundation regarding Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (SEA-H) and defines the procedures for preventing such behaviors and handling allegations. Our foundation is committed to providing a safe, trustworthy, and respectful environment within the organization and in our global activities through all our programs and projects.

Definitions

  • Sexual Exploitation: The abuse of a position of power, trust, or vulnerability for sexual purposes. This includes actions that result in material, social, or political gain from sexual exploitation or threats thereof.

  • Sexual Abuse: Any physical intervention or threat of a sexual nature, whether forced or under unequal or coercive conditions. All sexual activities with children are considered sexual abuse.

  • Sexual Harassment: Any unwanted approach, demand, or behavior of a sexual nature that is presented as a condition of employment or creates a disturbing, hostile, or offensive work environment.

Scope

This policy applies to all individuals associated with the VİCDAN Foundation, including employees, volunteers, interns, consultants, and other representatives.

Principles and Actions

  1. Awareness and Education:

    • The Foundation ensures that all staff and volunteers understand and accept the SEA-H policy and code of conduct.

    • Each new volunteer signs a form acknowledging the policy and behavior rules.

  2. Prevention:

    • Preventing SEA-H is the responsibility of all individuals.

    • The Foundation adopts a risk-based approach, assessing SEA-H risks in projects and taking additional measures for high-risk projects.

  3. Reporting and Communication:

    • The Foundation provides accessible and secure reporting mechanisms.

    • All reports are evaluated by the SEA-H Review Committee.

  4. SEA-H Review Committee:

    • This multidisciplinary team assesses allegations and takes action when necessary.

    • The committee includes volunteers and maintains confidentiality throughout the process.

  5. Prioritizing Victim's Needs:

    • The Foundation prioritizes the safety, health, and well-being of victims in all activities.

    • The wishes of the victim are supported by the Foundation to the best possible extent.

  6. Zero Tolerance for Inaction:

    • All SEA-H allegations are addressed fairly and reasonably.

    • If a violation is confirmed, appropriate disciplinary actions are taken.

Implementation

  • Foundation employees and volunteers receive training to recognize, prevent, and report SEA-H situations.

  • Reporting can be done through the Foundation's online Ethics Line or via phone.

  • All SEA-H reports are kept confidential and reviewed fairly by the Review Committee.

Consequences and Sanctions

  • Severe disciplinary actions may be applied if behaviors contrary to the SEA-H policy are detected, potentially leading to dismissal or termination of the volunteer’s association with the Foundation.

  • Violations may also be shared with relevant public institutions or judicial authorities based on their nature.

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