Pursuing the United Nations policy of zero tolerance of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) by its staff, the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has reported eight cases for investigation since the beginning of the year, one of which has been substantiated with the person involved immediately suspended. The other investigations are continuing. "The United Nations in Liberia is committed to prevent, identify and sanction the abhorrent practice of sexual abuse and exploitation in full compliance with the Secretary-General's Bulletin `Special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and sexual abuse' and its policy of zero tolerance," the mission said in a statement. Secretary-General Kofi Annan instituted the policy following allegations in 2004 against peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
"The United Nations in Liberia is committed to prevent, identify and sanction the abhorrent practice of sexual abuse and exploitation in full compliance with the Secretary-General's Bulletin `Special measures for protection from sexual exploitation and sexual abuse' and its policy of zero tolerance," the mission said in a statement.
Secretary-General Kofi Annan instituted the policy following allegations in 2004 against peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The United Nations in Liberia takes the issue of sexual exploitation and abuse seriously and is currently implementing a range of measures to address the matter. The United Nations recognizes the urgent need to raise awareness about SEA and in this regard takes note of the release of the Save the Children UK Discussion Paper entitled "From Camp to Community: Liberia study on exploitation of children." On several occasions the United Nations met with Save the Children UK to discuss the issue of SEA and to offer a collaborative approach to intensify actions against SEA. On these occasions the United Nations has sought information on specific cases to prevent and sanction SEA. Although Save did not discuss the ultimate findings or recommendations of its report with the United Nations, the Organization will continue to vigorously pursue its activities to prevent and deal with SEA. The United Nations is committed to continue to work with national authorities and other partners in an effort to ensure a common, effective approach to deal with SEA.
On several occasions the United Nations met with Save the Children UK to discuss the issue of SEA and to offer a collaborative approach to intensify actions against SEA. On these occasions the United Nations has sought information on specific cases to prevent and sanction SEA. Although Save did not discuss the ultimate findings or recommendations of its report with the United Nations, the Organization will continue to vigorously pursue its activities to prevent and deal with SEA. The United Nations is committed to continue to work with national authorities and other partners in an effort to ensure a common, effective approach to deal with SEA.
