Lesotho: PIH steps up fight against sexual exploitation

The non-governmental organisation Partners in Health (PIH) has reaffirmed its commitment to zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (SEAH).

The organization therefore takes strict measures to prevent and address such incidents, ensuring that the people who use its services (patients, families and community members) are treated with dignity and respect.

PIH Safeguarding/SEAH Manager Toka Senkoto spoke this week about the organisation’s proactive stance in combating SEAH. He said PIH was not only focused on preventing these violations, but also on taking decisive action against anyone who failed to report abuse or retaliated against those who did report or participated in investigations.

“PIH is committed to protecting everyone who comes into contact with our services, including vulnerable people such as children and adults at risk. We strive to protect them from any form of sexual exploitation, abuse or harassment,” said Mr Senkoto.

Mr. Senkoto explained that within the PIH framework, a child is defined as anyone under the age of 18, regardless of local definitions of adulthood. He also clarified that vulnerable adults are those over the age of 18 who could not protect themselves due to factors such as gender, mental or physical health, disability, ethnicity or social status.

“Our Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment Prevention Policy clearly outlines our commitment to protecting beneficiaries and staff from these violations. We set high standards of conduct for all who represent PIH and strictly enforce these standards.”

Sexual harassment, according to Mr. Senkoto, includes any unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other conduct of a sexual nature that could be expected to offend or create a hostile work environment. He noted that while such behavior often follows a pattern, it can also manifest itself in a single incident.

“Sexual abuse includes any physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under coercive circumstances, while sexual exploitation is the abuse of a position of vulnerability or trust for sexual purposes. These terms cover a wide range of behaviours that go beyond sexual intercourse, including unwanted sexual comments or advances.”

Mr Senkoto said the root causes of sexual exploitation and harassment were linked to power dynamics and existing vulnerabilities. He said PIH’s policy integrated the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse with a broader commitment to addressing sexual and gender-based violence.