Safeguarding & PSEA Policy

If you have a safeguarding or PSEA concern, report it immediately. All reports are treated confidentially and with full whistleblower protection.

1. Our Commitment

ACRA has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (SEAH). We are committed to ensuring that all people who come into contact with our work — particularly children, women and vulnerable adults — are protected from harm. This policy applies to all ACRA staff, volunteers, partners and contractors.

2. Definitions

Sexual Exploitation: any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust for sexual purposes. Sexual Abuse: actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature. Sexual Harassment: unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. All three are strictly prohibited under this policy and in violation of UN ST/SGB/2003/13.

3. Prohibited Conduct

ACRA prohibits: sexual exploitation or abuse of beneficiaries; exchange of money, goods or services for sexual activity; sexual relationships with beneficiaries; any conduct of a sexual nature towards children under 18; and any behaviour that demeans, humiliates or exploits any person.

4. Reporting Channels

Concerns can be reported to: speakup@acrasouthsudan.org (confidential safeguarding email) or by calling +211 925 945 465. Reports can be made anonymously. All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly. Retaliation against anyone who reports in good faith is strictly prohibited.

5. Investigation Process

All reports are acknowledged within 24 hours. An independent investigation is conducted within 15 working days. Findings are documented and appropriate action is taken. Reporters are kept informed of progress. ACRA cooperates fully with relevant authorities and donor reporting requirements.

6. Whistleblower Protection

Any person who reports a safeguarding concern in good faith is fully protected from retaliation, victimisation or dismissal. Confidentiality is maintained throughout the process. ACRA takes any retaliation against reporters extremely seriously.

7. Training & Prevention

All ACRA staff complete mandatory safeguarding and PSEA training upon joining and annually thereafter. Beneficiaries are informed of their rights and reporting channels at every project touchpoint. ACRA conducts regular PSEA risk assessments across all programs.

8. Standards Alignment

This policy is aligned with: UN ST/SGB/2003/13, the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS), IASC PSEA standards, the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Task Force on PSEA, and Sphere Standards. ACRA is committed to continuous improvement in safeguarding practice.