Source · Select Committees · International Development Committee
Recommendation 23
23
Paragraph: 94
We welcome the enhanced due diligence central assurance assessments that DFID funded Keeping Children Safe...
Conclusion
We welcome the enhanced due diligence central assurance assessments that DFID funded Keeping Children Safe to undertake. This is an important step towards developing an understanding of how well partner organisations that receive UK ODA funding are meeting the enhanced safeguarding due diligence requirements. However, only assessing the central offices is a severe limitation. The FCDO should undertake further monitoring of its implementation partners’ adherence to the enhanced safeguarding due diligence requirements in the countries where programmes are implemented to assess how they work with aid beneficiaries. The results of these assessments should be used to inform the FCDO’s ongoing relationship with these organisations. If their implementation of recommendations is found to be too slow then the FCDO should consider the measures it has at its disposal—such banning that organisation from applying for future contracts—to hold the organisation accountable for its actions.
Paragraph Reference:
94
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
We do not recognise the characterisation of apathy, but agree on the importance of ensuring all personnel, including the middle and senior leadership, are fully committed to tackling SEA. Vulnerable communities that peacekeepers have been sent to protect must be protected from exploitation and abuse. Projects which the UK has funded to help achieve this include: ‘Sustaining Action Against Misconduct and Communication on the Women, Peace and Security agenda’; ‘Redress for victims of SEA’; and ‘Taking action to end SEA.’ These projects focus on peacekeeping missions with the highest number of SEA allegations and provide technical guidance and workshops for field and 10 Seventh Special Report of Session 2019–21 HQ leadership on communicating on misconduct and ensuring alignment with system- wide communications practices. The UK will continue to look for new ways to ensure SEA is embedded and prioritised throughout missions.