LocationsUNDP Tajikistan has conducted two critical information sessions for civil society organizations and state institutions, aiming to empower participants to recognize, prevent, and address sexual exploitation and abuse.
UNDP Strengthens Efforts to Prevent Sexual Exploitation and Abuse through Awareness Sessions
December 18, 2024
Anna Victorova, UNDP Consultant on the Prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA), leading an informative session for government representatives
Nigora Fazliddin, UNDP Tajikistan
As part of the United Nations family, UNDP upholds a strict zero-tolerance policy towards sexual misconduct. Sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment directly contradict the values and principles of the UN and threaten the integrity of its mission to foster inclusive and sustainable development.
To ensure a safe and respectful society and workplace, UNDP works with international organizations, donor countries, and UN Member States to promote high standards for preventing sexual misconduct. In line with these commitments, the recent information sessions aimed to enhance awareness of the risks, responsibilities, and reporting mechanisms under UNDP’s projects and initiatives.
Government representatives during the session on PSEA
Nigora Fazliddin, UNDP Tajikistan
Stronger Policies
The sessions brought together representatives from key government ministries and committees, focusing on their roles in preventing misconduct. Participants explored Tajikistan’s legislative framework, including the Law “On State Guarantees of Equality of Men and Women”, public servants’ codes of conduct, and ethical standards specific to their institutions.
Shahlo Nazarova from the Committee on Women’s and Family Affairs listening to the session
Nigora Fazliddin, UNDP Tajikistan
Interactive exercises and discussions highlighted the importance of fostering safe, ethical practices within government organizations. Shahlo Nazarova from the Committee on Women’s and Family Affairs underscored the sessions’ significance: "In Tajikistan, many women and children remain vulnerable due to socio-economic factors. State institutions play a critical role in their protection. These sessions are vital for understanding how to minimize risks and respond effectively to exploitation.”
Faridun Bobokhonov, representative of the Committee on Youth and Sports Affairs
Nigora Fazliddin, UNDP Tajikistan
Faridun Bobokhonov, representative of the Committee on Youth and Sports Affairs under the Government of Tajikistan, emphasized the importance of misconduct prevention, said, "Misconduct can potentially impact not only women and children but also men. While working in a professional setting, we should treat our workplace as a home, maintaining respect and a zero-tolerance policy for any misconduct of such nature.”
Safer Communities
While collaboration with state actors strengthens government systems and ensures sustainable, preventive measures, working with civil society organizations helps identify risks and reach vulnerable groups at the grassroots level. By partnering with them, UNDP ensures effective awareness, prevention, and reporting, fostering accountability and creating safer, more inclusive environments.
Participants engaged in the session
Nigora Fazliddin, UNDP Tajikistan
A similar session was held with CSOs to reinforce these efforts. Both sessions were led by Anna Victorova, UNDP’s consultant specializing in the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse.
"Preventing sexual exploitation and abuse requires collective action. These sessions equip partners with essential knowledge and tools to create safer environments for all, ensuring that vulnerable individuals are protected and that ethical standards are upheld across all sectors," said Victorova, highlighting the importance of partnership in this regard.
Anna Victorova speaking to the audience
Nigora Fazliddin, UNDP Tajikistan
Zero Tolerance
UNDP is committed to preventing sexual misconduct in all its forms. This includes:
- Strictly prohibiting sexual activity with minors under 18.
- Forbidding the exchange of money, goods, or services for sex.
- Preventing sexual relationships between development workers and beneficiaries.
- Addressing all forms of non-consensual sexual activity and coercion.
UNDP takes decisive action to investigate allegations and ensure accountability. Contracts, agreements, and partnerships explicitly incorporate the zero-tolerance policy, holding staff, contractors, and partners to the highest standards. Where misconduct is confirmed, offenders face termination of agreements and criminal investigation, with no immunity provided.
A Call to Action
At UNDP, we prioritize the safety and well-being of every individual, especially vulnerable groups, by fostering environments built on respect, security, and empowerment.
If you witness or experience sexual misconduct, including exploitation and abuse, report it immediately. UNDP is committed to swift and effective responses, whether the incident involves UNDP personnel, partners, contractors, or consultants.
Together, we can build a culture where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
For reporting, don't hesitate to get in touch with UNDP PSEA focal points:
Umeda Nurmamadova: umeda.nurmamadova@undp.org
Qosimjon Ismoilov: qosimjon.ismoilov@undp.org
Related
content
content
