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Darwaz-E-Balkh, Mazar-E-Sharif, Afghanistan
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PSEA Policy
This policy comes into effect on the date of approval by the GOHAO Executive Board. The policy shall be reviewed at least once every two (2) years, or earlier if required due to changes in legal frameworks, donor requirements, operational context, or lessons learned from safeguarding incidents.
Any revisions to this policy shall be documented in the version history, including the nature of changes made, date of revision, and approving authority. Responsibility for initiating the review process rests with the PSEA/GBV Focal Point in coordination with Senior Management.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1.1 About GOHAO
1.2 Purpose of the PSEA Policy
1.3 Accountability Statement
1.4 Framework Principles
2. PSEA Reporting Structure
3. Policy Implementation
4. PSEA Description and Commitments
5. Background Checks
6. Complaint and Reporting Mechanisms
1. Introduction
1.1 About GOHAO
Gate of Hope Afghanistan Organization (GOHAO) is a non-partisan, independent, and philanthropic organization operating in strict adherence to applicable laws. Established in 2021, GOHAO delivers humanitarian and development services across Afghanistan and Asia, focusing on Health, Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, and Education.
GOHAO operates in complex and high-risk environments and recognizes its responsibility to protect communities—especially women and children—from sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. Safeguarding and PSEAH principles are integrated into all stages of programming.
Vision
A society where women, children, and vulnerable groups live in safety, dignity, and equality, free from exploitation and abuse.
Mission
To empower Afghan women and protect children through education, resilience-building, and safeguarding-focused programs.
1.2 Purpose of the PSEA Policy
GOHAO maintains a strict zero-tolerance approach toward sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA). This policy defines standards, responsibilities, and procedures to prevent and respond to such incidents.
It applies to all staff, volunteers, partners, contractors, and representatives across all operations and locations. The policy ensures a safe and respectful environment and outlines reporting, accountability, and response mechanisms.
Scope of Application
This policy applies to all individuals associated with GOHAO including employees, volunteers, consultants, partners, and visitors. It covers all work-related environments including fieldwork, travel, trainings, and online spaces.
1.3 Accountability Statement
GOHAO is fully committed to enforcing this policy. Compliance is mandatory and all personnel must complete PSEA training and adhere to the Code of Conduct.
1.4 Framework Principles
Survivor-Centered Approach
GOHAO prioritizes dignity, safety, and rights of survivors. All actions follow principles of confidentiality, consent, and non-discrimination.
Safeguarding
Protection of all individuals regardless of gender, age, or background.
Shared Responsibility
All staff share responsibility in preventing and reporting abuse.
Zero Tolerance
No form of sexual exploitation or abuse is tolerated.
Confidentiality
All information is handled securely and shared only when necessary.
2. PSEA Reporting Structure
GOHAO ensures safe, confidential, and accessible reporting channels.
Reporting Channels
Executive Director – oversees investigations
HR Head – handles staff concerns
Procurement Head – handles supplier issues
Finance Head – handles financial concerns
Reporting Process
• Report via hotline, email, or directly
• Investigation conducted confidentially
• Action taken based on findings
• Follow-up and review conducted
3. Policy Implementation
GOHAO integrates PSEA into all operations through governance, risk assessment, and monitoring.
Governance
Executive leadership ensures implementation and accountability.
Staff Responsibility
All staff must report concerns and follow the Code of Conduct.
Manager Responsibility
Managers ensure awareness and enforcement of policy.
PSEA Focal Point
Responsible for training, monitoring, and reporting.
Confidentiality
All complaints are handled securely with strict data protection.
4. PSEA Description and Commitments
GOHAO strictly prohibits:
• Sexual exploitation and abuse
• Sexual activity with children or beneficiaries
• Sexual harassment
• Physical and emotional abuse
Violations result in disciplinary action including termination or legal action.
Training and Communication
Regular awareness and training sessions are conducted.
Failure to Report
Not reporting incidents is considered a serious violation.
Support for Survivors
Survivors receive medical, psychosocial, and legal support with full confidentiality.
5. Background Checks
GOHAO conducts strict background checks for staff, partners, and contractors.
Employee Checks
Verification of identity, education, and criminal record.
Partner Checks
Evaluation of safeguarding practices and past conduct.
Data Protection
All records are securely stored and confidential.
6. Complaint and Reporting Mechanisms
Reports can be made through:
• Email: complaints@goha-afg.org / gender@goha-afg.org
• Phone/WhatsApp: +93 780946190
• In-person reporting
Reporting is:
• Confidential
• Accessible
• Survivor-centered
All complaints are acknowledged and handled with care, ensuring protection and follow-up.
GOHAO is committed to maintaining a transparent, safe, and respectful environment where all individuals can report concerns without fear. Whistleblowers are protected, and all reports are handled confidentially and professionally.
Darwaz-E-Balkh, Mazar-E-Sharif, Afghanistan