Sexual Exploitation and Abuse
What is sexual exploitation and abuse?
Sexual exploitation is any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another. Sexual abuse is the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions.
Examples
- Example: A community health worker encourages young women to have sex with him in return for access to a training.
- Example: A health worker who demands sex from a person in return for medical treatment.
Why should you care about sexual exploitation and abuse?
- Sexual exploitation and abuse is devastating for the individuals involved and destroys relationships and trust within communities.
- The Global Fund prohibits all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse in programs, including harassment and sexual activity with children.
- Sexual exploitation and abuse is an unacceptable breach of the fundamental rights of people and a deep betrayal of our core values at the Global Fund.
How do you spot sexual exploitation and abuse?
Sexual Exploitation and Abuse can have the following red flags:
- Look for circumstances where there is a power imbalance, particularly those involving beneficiaries (e.g., access to program benefits and during recruitment).
