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Gender-Based Violence

GBV Policy

Gate of Hope maintains a zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence — providing confidential reporting, survivor support, and clear accountability for all staff and volunteers.

GBV Policy

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a grave violation of human rights and a pervasive global issue affecting millions of individuals regardless of gender, age, or background. For Gate of Hope, which operates in challenging environments such as Afghanistan, addressing GBV is not optional — it is foundational to our mission. This policy outlines our comprehensive approach to prevention, survivor support, and accountability.

Zero

Tolerance for GBV of any kind

16

Policy sections & frameworks

All staff

Mandatory training required

Annual

Policy review cycle

1

Introduction & Background

Gate of Hope recognizes that GBV — including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence based on gender — affects communities and workplaces worldwide. The WHO reports that approximately 1 in 3 women globally experiences physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. GBV is not limited to women; men, non-binary individuals, and LGBTQ+ community members can also be victims. As an organization committed to helping Afghanistan's most vulnerable populations, we take a proactive stance.

  • Prevention: Create a work environment that actively prevents GBV through education and proactive measures
  • Support: Provide comprehensive resources to victims and survivors
  • Response: Establish clear procedures for reporting, investigating, and addressing incidents
  • Compliance: Ensure adherence to national and international laws and best practices
2

Scope and Applicability

This policy applies to all employees, volunteers, consultants, contractors, and any other individuals engaged with Gate of Hope, regardless of position or location.

  • Office premises and all Gate of Hope facilities
  • Off-site work locations, field operations, and outreach activities
  • Conferences, workshops, and training sessions
  • Business travel and all work-related trips
  • Virtual and online environments and communications
3

Definitions

Clear definitions ensure all staff can identify and appropriately respond to GBV in its various forms.

Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

Any act of violence or discrimination directed at an individual based on their gender. Includes physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence.

Sexual Harassment

Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or verbal/physical conduct of a sexual nature that affects an individual's employment, interferes with work performance, or creates a hostile environment.

Sexual Assault

Any non-consensual physical sexual act or attempt to obtain a sexual act by violence, coercion, or manipulation.

Gender Discrimination

Unfair or unequal treatment based on an individual's gender that impacts the terms of their employment or creates a hostile working environment.

5

Roles and Responsibilities

Effective implementation requires clear ownership at every level of the organization.

Senior Management

Responsible for endorsing the policy, providing necessary resources, and demonstrating organizational commitment through visible leadership.

Human Resources (HR)

Tasked with implementing the policy, handling reports, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with all procedures.

GBV Response Team

A dedicated multidisciplinary team of trained professionals responsible for investigating reports, providing survivor support, and making recommendations for action.

Supervisors and Managers

Responsible for fostering a safe work environment, recognizing warning signs, and responding to reports in accordance with this policy.

All Employees and Volunteers

Expected to adhere to the policy, participate in mandatory training, and report any incidents or concerns to the appropriate authority.

6

Prevention Strategies

Gate of Hope takes a proactive approach to GBV prevention, addressing risks before they become incidents.

Risk Assessment

  • Regular workplace surveys to assess the prevalence and risk of GBV
  • Focus groups with employees to gather insights and identify concerns
  • Environmental scans of workplace settings for potential vulnerabilities

Control Measures

  • Strict and consistent enforcement of the GBV policy across all locations
  • Physical environment improvements: well-lit areas, secure entry points
  • Continuous awareness campaigns promoting a culture of zero tolerance

Safe Spaces & Support Networks

  • Designated safe spaces where employees can seek immediate refuge
  • Internal peer support networks for mutual assistance and early intervention
7

Reporting Mechanisms

Gate of Hope provides multiple, accessible, and confidential channels for reporting GBV incidents.

  • Immediate reporting to designated authorities encouraged; multiple contact points available
  • Detailed documentation guidelines provided (dates, times, descriptions)
  • Anonymous reporting mechanisms available; investigators acknowledge confidentiality challenges
  • All reports tracked through a secure case management system with regular status updates
8

Investigation Procedures

All GBV reports are investigated thoroughly, impartially, and with respect for the rights of all parties involved.

Investigation Protocols

  • Initial assessment determines immediate needs and safety of the complainant
  • Evidence gathered through interviews, documentation review, and other means
  • Structured interview guidelines used for complainants, witnesses, and the accused

Rights Protected Throughout

  • Complainant rights: confidentiality, access to support services, protection from retaliation
  • Accused rights: presumption of innocence, fair and unbiased investigation, right to respond
9

Support and Resources for Survivors

Gate of Hope is committed to providing comprehensive, survivor-centered support following any GBV incident.

  • Access to professional counseling and psychological support services
  • Assistance with accessing medical care and treatment
  • Legal assistance: information on rights and help navigating legal processes
  • Temporary work modifications (duties, location) to ensure survivor safety and well-being
  • Survivor support groups established for shared experience and mutual encouragement
10

Training and Education

All Gate of Hope staff receive mandatory training on GBV prevention and response, with specialized modules for leadership and response team members.

  • Mandatory regular training for all employees and volunteers
  • Specialized training for supervisors, managers, and the GBV Response Team
  • Training goals: awareness building, skills development, and cultural change
  • Effectiveness evaluated through post-training feedback and behavioral assessments
11

Enforcement and Sanctions

Gate of Hope applies clear, proportionate, and consistent sanctions for all GBV policy violations.

  • Sanctions range from formal warnings to immediate termination based on severity
  • Consistent application of sanctions regardless of seniority or position
  • Employees informed of their right to appeal any disciplinary decision
  • Detailed appeal process ensures fair review of all disciplinary actions
12

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

Gate of Hope tracks policy performance through specific indicators and publishes annual reports to ensure ongoing transparency and improvement.

  • Incident reporting rates tracked and analyzed for trends
  • Resolution timelines monitored to ensure cases are handled promptly
  • Regular employee surveys gather feedback on policy implementation
  • Annual reports on GBV incidents and outcomes published for accountability
13

Policy Review and Update

This policy is reviewed at least annually, and additionally in response to significant incidents or legislative changes, with input from staff and external experts.

  • Annual policy review with employee input solicited at all levels
  • Ad hoc reviews triggered by serious incidents or changes in applicable law
  • Consultation with GBV specialists and legal advisors as part of the review process
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