Bond responds to ICAI's report on the UK’s approach to safeguarding in the humanitarian sector

A new report from the the Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI), which looks at the UK’s approach to safeguarding in the humanitarian sector, says the government is falling short because of a “top-down” approach and needs to listen and learn from victims who remain reluctant to report abuse allegations.

Stephanie Draper, CEO at Bond, said:
“The UK government has taken important steps to provide leadership and strengthen safeguarding standards across the sector, but we know there is a long way to go and the FCDO is a critical player in this. There is still a lack of data around incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse and what works where, and how to prevent, which is holding progress back. This needs to be addressed.

“We would encourage the FCDO to move beyond compliance and minimum standards because this can unintentionally undermine community-led initiatives that work. Ultimately, the voices of victims and survivors need to be sought out and heard and this work needs to be adequately funded so organisations do not need to cut corners when it comes to safeguarding.”

ENDS

Notes to editor:

Bond is the UK network for organisations working in international development. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 400 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice
The report can be read here
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