What is Sexual Exploitation and Abuse?
Sexual exploitation is defined as an actual or attempted abuse of someone’s position of vulnerability (such as a person depending on another for survival, food rations, schoolbooks, transport or other services), differential power or trust, to obtain sexual favours, including but not only, by offering money or other social, economic or political advantages. It includes trafficking and prostitution.
Sexual abuse means the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force, or under unequal or coercive conditions. It includes sexual slavery, pornography, child abuse and sexual assault.
- If you are a survivor of sexual exploitation or abuse, you can seek help from any Gender-Based Violence service in the camp, or at any Women and Girl Safe Space.
- If you would like to get more information on GBV services in your camp, you can access the referral pathway here.
- You can also call the UNHCR Helpline number 16670 for more information or support.
Sexual Exploitation and Abuse committed by UNHCR or humanitarian staff, partners or volunteers
Sexual exploitation and abuse committed by UNHCR or humanitarian staff, partners or volunteers or by any personnel of a humanitarian agency is considered to be serious misconduct and will result in severe consequences for the perpetrator.
Remember, all UNHCR, partner and humanitarian services are free of charge.
Watch this video about sexual exploitation and abuse and take a look at the information materials below.
Reporting
UNHCR has zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse. If you are a victim or witness of sexual exploitation and abuse committed by UNHCR or humanitarian staff, partners, or volunteers please report it immediately. Your report will be treated with the utmost sensitivity and confidentiality.
You can report incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse committed by UNHCR or humanitarian staff, partners or volunteers through the following channels:
- Call UNHCR Helpline number 16670. Calling is free of charge;
- Access a Women and Girls Safe Space or a GBV service provider.
- Report your complaint at any of the information points;
Strict confidentiality is applied.
In addition, if your complaint is about fraud, sexual exploitation or abuse, or misconduct by someone who works for UNHCR, you can also contact UNHCR’s Inspector General Office (IGO) in UNHCR Headquarters.
- By using the Online Complaint Form
- Confidential email: [email protected]
- In person or by post: 94 rue de Montbrillant, CP 2500, 1211 Geneva
Mark all mail CONFIDENTIAL
