Source · Select Committees · International Development Committee
Recommendation 29
29
Paragraph: 109
Our evidence suggests that UN whistle-blowers continue to run the risk of retaliation if they...
Conclusion
Our evidence suggests that UN whistle-blowers continue to run the risk of retaliation if they speak out about sexual exploitation and abuse. The FCDO should consider what measures it has at its disposal to tackle this problem, including the funding mechanisms which can be applied, such as those used by the United States Congress to hold US aid delivery partners to account for their conduct. The UK should advocate to the UN on its responsibility to protect whistle-blowers and the important role they play in bringing abuses to light.
Paragraph Reference:
109
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The PSVI remains a top priority for the UK Government. We are the only government in the world to have a Prime Minister’s Special Representative as well as a dedicated team and funding focused on tackling conflict-related sexual violence, including a PSVI Team of Experts that can be deployed to support specific contexts. The role of the Prime Minister’s Special Representative has continued to be a ministerial appointment since its creation in 2014. Our global leadership role on the issue is widely acknowledged by international partners and in the United Nations. PSVI has always had an institutional home in the FCO, and now the FCDO. Since its creation, PSVI has been led by the FCDO (previously FCO) with support from the then DFID and the MOD. The recent merger has provided further opportunities to integrate the strengths and expertise of various teams. For example, bringing the UK’s development offer more into the PSVI campaign, and using the UK’s co-leadership of the Generation Equality Action Coalition on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) to push for more action to tackle GBV in conflict and crisis, including sexual violence. HMG recognised the need for improved oversight and strategic direction. As Lord Ahmad said at the November 2020 IDC hearing, the FCDO plans to lead the development of a three-year strategy with input from the MOD, and programme learnings from the Conflict Stability and Security Fund (CSSF), and the What Works to Prevent Violence programme. We will also develop an evidence-based Theory of Change, as part of the development of the strategy, with embedded monitoring, evaluation, and learning. We hope to begin a consultation process on the new strategy in early 2021. 12 Seventh Special Report of Session 2019–21