PSEA in Humanitarian Work: Responsibilities and Accountability

Humanitarian workers play a critical role in crisis zones — but their proximity to vulnerable communities comes with immense ethical responsibility.

🔍 What you need to know:

• SEA involves abuse of power — this includes harassment, coercion, trading aid for sex, or taking advantage of someone’s vulnerability.

• Humanitarian staff are obliged to report any suspicion of SEA, even without the victim’s consent.

• Even seemingly “harmless jokes” or inappropriate messages between colleagues can qualify as harassment.

• Any sexual contact with a minor is always considered abuse, regardless of perceived “consent.”

Humanitarian actors must understand the reporting procedures, referral systems, and “do no harm” principles. Trust in the humanitarian system starts with individual accountability.