Sexual violence

Chapter summary

Sexual violence is any act of a sexual nature, or attempt to obtain a sexual act, that is unwanted, coerced or forced. All staff, no matter their location, are at risk of sexual violence as this risk exists in every country and can even be perpetrated online. Within the context of the aid sector, sexual violence can take different forms, for example:

• individual targeting, including the administration of drugs to incapacitate the target;
• sexual abuse and exploitation, where aid workers are coerced by individuals in positions of power; and
• as a weapon of war or intimidation, where aid workers are targeted by armed actors.

Working in violent environments where there is weak rule of law can increase the risk of particularly traumatic forms of sexual violence. Unlike other critical incidents within the aid sector, risk management for sexual violence is still hindered by stigma as well as misconceptions around what it is and why it happens. It is imperative that staff involved in managing incidents are trained and can access support from experts.

Risk considerations relating to sexual violence can be grouped under four areas:

• Individual risk considerations
• Perpetrator profiles
• Organisational risk factors
• External risk factors

Strategies for risk mitigation should aim to address all four areas. Security staff can ensure that procedures prioritise not only managing staff behaviour, but also deterring potential perpetrators and addressing other risk factors. For example, organisations can focus on training staff on how to reduce their exposure to the risk, while also putting in place measures to deter perpetrators, addressing the organisational and external conditions that contribute to sexual violence (when possible) and mitigating risks in these environments.

Like any other threat, measures must be taken at an individual and organisational level to reduce the risk of sexual violence.

Some good practice prevention and preparedness measures include:

• Policies, systems and mechanisms for preventing, preparing for and responding to incidents of sexual violence affecting staff.
• Clear roles and responsibilities for managing the risk of sexual violence within the organisation, from first responders to survivor supporters.
• Inductions, briefings and training covering the risk of sexual violence, relevant policies and practices and individual roles and responsibilities for reducing risk and responding to incidents.
• Including sexual violence risks within risk assessments and plans.
• Contingency plans, including identifying appropriate service providers, insurance coverage, logistical arrangements and legal support for survivors.
• Implementing robust and confidential reporting and whistleblowing mechanisms.
• Rigorous screening of potential employees during recruitment.

Timely responses to sexual violence incidents are critical to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those affected. How an organisation responds will depend on various circumstances, including when the incident took place, when it was reported, the wishes of the survivor, the severity of the incident and the risks posed to others. Responses must be trauma-informed and survivor-centred, and consider relevant cultural and legal dynamics. The risk of re-traumatisation is very high, and in some regions reporting sexual violence could lead to additional harm for the survivor due to local laws and cultural practices.

The initial response usually involves ensuring the immediate safety and security of the survivor and others who may be at risk, providing medical and psychosocial care, and identifying a survivor supporter. It may require activation of an organisation’s crisis management structure (if appropriate). In the longer term, additional administrative, legal and logistical support may be needed.

Confidentiality and communications are complex for a serious sexual violence incident and must be handled with care, considering the survivor’s needs and wishes. Reporting the incident to the police and subsequent legal proceedings can also be complicated, with additional risks for the survivor, and it is good practice for organisations to have a comprehensive understanding of the legal environments in which they operate, particularly concerning incidents of sexual violence, as well as access to local lawyers to provide guidance and support in the event of an incident.

Affected staff may require long-term aftercare following a sexual violence incident, and a survivor support plan should be developed. This support should be tailored to the individual’s needs and provided by trained professionals experienced in handling trauma.

Organisations also need to be prepared in the event that the alleged perpetrator of a sexual violence incident is a member of staff, including safeguarding both the survivor and others who may be at risk of further harm. Organisations will want to have trained and independent investigators available to carry out an internal investigation.