Ethics, Safeguarding, PSEA & Code of Conduct
READO 2026
Ethics, Safeguarding, PSEA & Code of Conduct
Effective Jan 1, 2026. Ensuring the safety, dignity, and rights of children, adolescents, and all community members.
1. Scope of Application
This policy is universal within READO. It leaves no gaps. It applies to every individual representing the organization, regardless of their contract type or location. From the Executive Committee to field volunteers, compliance is mandatory.
Fig 1: The "Universal Scope" - Policy applies equally to all 5 groups.
Safeguarding
Actions to prevent and respond to harm, abuse, and neglect, particularly for vulnerable persons.
PSEA (Prevention of Sexual Exploitation & Abuse)
Specific measures to stop sexual abuse and the abuse of power, including a ban on transactional sex.
Survivor-Centred Approach
Prioritizing the safety, dignity, confidentiality, and choices of the survivor above all else.
2. Guiding Principles
Our actions are steered by six non-negotiable principles. These ensure that while we deliver aid, we never compromise the well-being of those we serve.
Do No Harm
Risk-aware programming
Best Interests
Of the child
Respect & Dignity
Non-discrimination
Accountability
To Affected Populations (AAP)
Confidentiality
Data protection
Integrity
Value-for-money
3. The Code of Conduct
The Code is binary: strict requirements for professional behavior and absolute prohibitions against exploitation. Adherence is not optional.
✅ Personnel MUST
- Respect cultural sensitivity.
- Declare conflicts of interest.
- Follow financial controls.
❌ Personnel MUST NOT
- Zero Tolerance: No sexual activity with children (<18).
- No exchange of money/goods for sex.
- No retaliation against reporters.
4. Incident Response Cycle
When a report is received, we act immediately using a standardized 6-step survivor-centred protocol.
Receive & Record
Record basic facts without probing. Maintain confidentiality.
Assess Safety
Ensure immediate safety. Provide medical/psychosocial referrals.
Notify Management
Inform Focal Point. Initiate preliminary review securely.
Admin Action
Decide on immediate measures (e.g., suspension) pending inquiry.
Investigate
Conduct internal or external investigation based on severity.
Correct & Learn
Apply disciplinary measures. Share anonymous learnings.
Roles & Responsibilities
Oversight and governance integrity.
Overall accountability and resourcing.
Reporting channels, logs, and training.
Staff compliance and safe implementation.
Disciplinary Measures
Consequences scale with severity.
Prepared by: Minhaz Samad Chowdhury
Independent Human Rights Defender
Focus: State Violence, Political Rights, Minority Protection & Democratic Accountability
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