IOM Ukraine has a policy of zero tolerance to sexual exploitation* and abuse** (SEA). All staff are committed to follow the below core principles while they are employed by the Organization.

  • SEA constitutes acts of gross misconduct and are grounds for termination of employment.
  • Sexual activity with children (persons under the age of 18) is prohibited.
  • Exchange of money, employment, goods or services for sex is prohibited.
  • Sexual relationships between IOM staff and beneficiaries are strongly discouraged and are prohibited when abuse or exploitative.
  • Staff members must report concerns regarding SEA by fellow workers.
  • IOM staff members, especially those in leadership positions, are obliged to create and maintain an environment that prevents and protects against SEA.

Zero tolerance means that active measures are being introduced to prevent SEA and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against all persons who are found to have violated the relevant IOM policies. Disciplinary actions, including summary dismissal, will be taken irrespective of grade, contract type, or seniority.

SEA refers to acts committed by humanitarian and development workers, which could be IOM staff or implementing partners/ contractors. Anyone who thinks they experienced SEA or believe that they are aware of such an incident, should report to the dedicated page for confidential reporting, We Are All In, here.

For general feedback or complaints, or information sought, related to IOM Ukraine, please call this hotline (within Ukraine): 0800 215 015.

For information on the collective work of different agencies and organizations active in Ukraine, on PSEA, there is the Ukraine Inter-agency PSEA Network.

For general information on PSEA and development globally, more information can be found here.

*Sexual exploitation is defined as any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another.  

**Sexual abuse means the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions.

Examples of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse

  • Sexual assault (any unwanted or forced sexual act committed without consent, including rape)
  • Forcing a person to engage in prostitution or pornography
  • Unwanted touching of a sexual nature
  • Making sex a condition for assistance
  • Offering services or money for sex

Useful resources: