Evolution of Collective IASC Member Culture on Protection Against Sexual Exploitation and Abuse and Sexual Harassment

This paper considers a series of cultural barriers that experts on protection against sexual exploitation and abuse and sexual harassment (PSEAH) and humanitarian managers believe are still hindering our collective progress. 

Our findings are based on a range of interviews conducted with participants in recent Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Scale-Up responses. These findings were then triangulated with a series of operational, research, and investigative reports. The sector is starting to see progress on PSEAH, and technical innovations are contributing to additional improvements in our systems; however, we have found there is still not enough change in our operational culture. 

This paper finds that many members in our sector still do not fully accept that the risk of sexual exploitation and abuse and sexual harassment (SEAH) is a reality in every operational context – and not just restricted to “a few bad apples”, nor are effective PSEAH policies seen as a cornerstone enabler of principled humanitarian response. Many leaders still believe the absence of SEAH complaints is a positive indication, rather than a red flag. However, this absence suggests that systems are weak, and trust is absent.

Concerns have been raised about a slowing of momentum and focus since 2018. It has taken 20 years to build this momentum and victims/survivors have suffered due to the slow pace of progress. So too has the reputation of the sector suffered and trust declined amongst key stakeholders. The sector is bracing itself for likely budget cuts, further exacerbating vulnerability and increasing power differentials, circumstances which provide opportunities for SEAH. We cannot claim that we are not aware of this risk. Leaders should be identifying ways in which they can be assured that the progress of the last decade is fully operationalised and sustained. Cultural change is arguably the most challenging leadership responsibility but also the most important to deliver zero tolerance on inactivity towards PSEAH. Recommendations for advancement are included.