As per PSHEA and HR policy of DAM sexual exploitation, harassment and abuse of employees and programme participants are serious misconduct and are grounds for disciplinary action, including termination of employment and referral to law enforcement, if applicable. DAM will also comply with national laws and rules on PSHEA violations. If any staff/volunteer/consultant/teacher who is proven to involve and committed sexual exploitation, harassment and abuse will be dismissed from employment and ineligible for rehire; For partner staff, breaches can lead to termination of the agreement and criminal proceedings. Failure to meet training requirements may lead to the re-allocation of duties and performance management until compulsory activities are complete.

DAM’s enforcement of the PSHEA Policy will be governed by six core principles:

a. SHEA by DAM employees and related personnel constitute acts of gross misconduct and are therefore grounds for termination of employment.

b. Sexual activity with children (persons under the age of 18) is prohibited regardless of the age of majority or age of consent locally. Mistaken belief regarding the age of a child is not a defense.

c. Exchange of money, employment, goods, or services for sex, including sexual favors or other forms of humiliating, degrading or exploitative behavior is prohibited. This includes exchange of assistance that is due to beneficiaries.

d. Any sexual relationship between DAM employees or related personnel and beneficiaries of assistance or other vulnerable members of the local community that involves improper use of rank or position is prohibited. Such relationships undermine the credibility and integrity of humanitarian aid work.

e. Where a DAM employee or related personnel develops concerns or suspicions regarding sexual abuse or exploitation by a fellow worker, whether in the same Organization or not, he or she must report such concerns via established reporting mechanisms.

f. All DAM employees and related personnel are obliged to create and maintain an environment which prevents SEA and promotes the implementation of this policy. Managers at all levels have particular responsibilities to support and develop systems which maintain this environment.