Source · Select Committees · International Development Committee
Recommendation 32
32
Paragraph: 124
We welcome ICAI’s review of sexual exploitation and abuse in international peacekeeping.
Conclusion
We welcome ICAI’s review of sexual exploitation and abuse in international peacekeeping. A culture of impunity among peacekeeping troops has contributed to the persistence of sexual exploitation and abuse. Perpetrators need to know that if they are caught, they will be punished. The UK should design its programmes for preventing sexual exploitation and abuse in a way that seeks to tackle apathy among middle and senior level leadership in peacekeeping missions and builds a strong safeguarding culture.
Paragraph Reference:
124
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
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 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.