ANTI-TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

Sustainable Development Council (SDC) Anti-Trafficking in Persons Policy

1. Purpose and Introduction: The Sustainable Development Council (SDC) is committed to combating human trafficking in all its forms. This Anti-Trafficking in Persons Policy serves as a comprehensive framework outlining SDC’s principles, guidelines, and actions to prevent, detect, and respond to trafficking in persons within our operations. Aligned with international standards and legal requirements, this policy reinforces SDC’s dedication to ethical conduct and social responsibility.

2. Definition of Trafficking in Persons: For the purposes of this policy, “Trafficking in Persons” is defined as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of persons by means of threat, use of force or other forms of coercion, deception, or abuse of power for the purpose of exploitation. Exploitation may involve forced labor, involuntary servitude, debt bondage, or commercial sexual exploitation.

3. Scope: This policy applies to all SDC employees, interns, fellows, volunteers, representatives (collectively referred to as “SDC Staff”), as well as SDC grantees/awardees, contractors, suppliers, consultants, and their employees, sub-grantees/awardees, and representatives (collectively referred to as “Delivery Partners”) engaged by SDC. The policy extends to cover all activities and operations conducted under the auspices of SDC.

4. Our Commitment: SDC is committed to:

a. Prevention: Taking proactive measures to prevent trafficking in persons within our operations, including robust due diligence processes for partners and contractors.

b. Protection: Safeguarding individuals from trafficking by implementing awareness programs, promoting safe working conditions, and supporting victims.

c. Prosecution: Cooperating with law enforcement authorities to ensure that perpetrators of trafficking are brought to justice.

d. Partnership: Collaborating with stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, to collectively address the root causes and consequences of trafficking in persons.

5. SDC Staff and Delivery Partners Responsibilities: All SDC Staff and Delivery Partners are responsible for:

a. Awareness: Familiarizing themselves with the indicators of trafficking in persons and staying informed about relevant laws and regulations.

b. Reporting: Promptly reporting any suspicions, concerns, or knowledge of trafficking in persons through appropriate channels within SDC.

c. Non-Retaliation: Ensuring that no individual faces retaliation for reporting trafficking concerns in good faith.

6. Recruitment and Contracting Practices: SDC commits to ensuring that its recruitment and contracting practices are free from any form of trafficking. This includes:

a. Vetting Partners: Conducting thorough due diligence on partners, suppliers, and contractors to assess their commitment to anti-trafficking principles.

b. Contractual Obligations: Including specific anti-trafficking clauses in contracts and agreements with partners, suppliers, and contractors.

7. Training and Capacity Building: SDC provides training and capacity-building programs to SDC Staff and Delivery Partners to enhance awareness, understanding, and responsiveness to the risks and signs of trafficking in persons. Training covers prevention, protection, and proper reporting procedures.

8. Reporting Mechanisms: SDC has established confidential reporting mechanisms, such as an online Ethics Hotline or phone number, for individuals to report trafficking concerns. All reports will be promptly and thoroughly investigated, with a commitment to protecting the confidentiality of those involved.

9. Consequences of Policy Violations: Violations of this policy by SDC Staff or Delivery Partners may result in disciplinary actions, including termination of employment or contractual relationships, and legal proceedings if warranted.

10. Continuous Improvement: SDC is committed to continuously reviewing and improving its Anti-Trafficking in Persons Policy to adapt to evolving challenges and best practices in combating trafficking.

Conclusion: SDC stands firm in its commitment to eradicating trafficking in persons. Through proactive prevention, robust protection measures, and collaborative efforts, we aim to contribute to a world where every individual is free from the scourge of trafficking, and human dignity is upheld.

This policy reinforces SDC’s pledge to ethical conduct, social responsibility, and sustainable development by actively combatting trafficking in persons in all its manifestations.