POLICY ON PROTECTION FROM SEXUAL EXPLOITATION AND ABUSE (PSEA)
Réseau EnfanceAfrique.org / AMAPISE
This policy is part of the continuity of the Scientific Code of Ethics and the Policy on the Use of Images of Minors already in force within the Network. It reflects AMAPISE's commitment to preventing and responding to all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse, distinct from child protection in the broader sense alone.
ARTICLE 1 — DEFINITION AND SCOPE OF APPLICATION
Sexual exploitation and abuse refer to any act or threat of a sexual nature committed by a member, collaborator, or partner of the Network against a beneficiary, particularly within the context of a relationship of trust, dependency, or authority. This policy applies to all Bureau members, associate researchers, volunteers, interns, and operational partners of the Network, in the context of any fieldwork or research activity.
ARTICLE 2 — COMMITMENTS AND CODE OF CONDUCT
Every member, associate researcher, volunteer, or partner of the Network commits to:
▸ Never engage in sexual exploitation or abuse, in any form whatsoever
▸ Never exchange money, employment, goods, or services for sexual favors
▸ Immediately report any suspicion or incident of which they become aware
▸ Create a work and research environment that actively prevents sexual exploitation and abuse
ARTICLE 3 — REPORTING MECHANISM
Any person, whether a Network member or a beneficiary, may report an incident or suspicion of sexual exploitation or abuse by writing to contact@enfanceafrique.org, with "PSEA — Confidential" in the subject line. Each report is handled confidentially, with the seriousness and speed required, regardless of the status of the person implicated within the Network.
ARTICLE 4 — PROTECTION OF WHISTLEBLOWERS
No person reporting an incident or suspicion in good faith may be subjected to retaliation, sanctions, or discrimination by the Network. This protection applies whether the report is subsequently confirmed or not, provided it was made in good faith.
ARTICLE 5 — SANCTIONS
Any proven violation of this policy exposes its author to sanctions that may include immediate and permanent exclusion from the Network, without prejudice to any legal proceedings the victim or the Network may pursue in accordance with applicable law.
ARTICLE 6 — PSEA FOCAL POINT
The implementation of this policy is ensured by a PSEA focal point designated within the Network. Pending the designation of a dedicated focal point, this function is carried out on an interim basis by the President, with a commitment to entrust it to an independent member as soon as the composition of the Bureau allows.