REVIEW MEETING ON THE SEXUAL EXPLOITATION, ABUSE, AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT RISK ASSESSMENT AND ACTION PLAN

A review meeting to assess and update the Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Sexual Harassment (SEA/SH) Risk Assessment and Action Plan was organized for project staff under the Ghana Productive Safety Net Project 2 (GPSNP 2) from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) and the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development (MLGDRD).

This meeting followed a recent training session designed to deepen project staff’s understanding of gender biases, stereotypes, and discrimination that impede progress toward achieving gender equality.

Held from 2nd to 4th December 2024, the meeting aimed to ensure that the SEA/SH Action Plan and the Environmental and Social Safeguards Checklist remain effective and aligned with emerging trends, international standards, and best practices.

The session also brought together selected stakeholders for in-depth discussions on critical updates to these tools.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief Director, Dr. Afisah Zakariah, the Gender Officer of the GPSNP 2 project, Madam Vera Karikari Bediako, noted that the World Bank has consistently emphasized the importance of avoiding the creation or exacerbation of SEA/SH vulnerabilities in projects.

She explained that the SEA/SH Action Plan includes procedures for mitigating risks, responsibly managing grievances, and enhancing accountability and disciplinary measures.

Participants explored strategies to strengthen support systems for victims, improve knowledge of reporting mechanisms, and promote a respectful and inclusive work culture.

Additionally, the Environmental and Social Safeguards and Gender Monitoring Checklist was reviewed to ensure it remains an effective data collection tool for addressing gender-related issues.

By the end of the workshop, participants highlighted the need for continuous monitoring of SEA/SH risks and mitigation measures throughout the project’s implementation. They also proposed establishing clear reporting mechanisms to foster a safer and more respectful working environment.

This initiative underscores the commitment of MoGCSP and MLGDRD to fostering gender-sensitive and socially inclusive interventions across their operations.

Source: MoGCSP