Approaches to Prevent and Respond to Sexual Misconduct in the Aid Sector : A case study of what Oxfam can learn from the Haiti incident 2011

Abstract: The topic of sexual misconduct in the aid sector is not new. However, since it was revealed that Oxfam GB had staff who committed sexual misconduct in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti and women spoke about the issue of SEAH under the #AidToo, the topic has been brought to life again. The purpose of this thesis is to make an attempt on how organizations in the aid sector can strengthen approaches to prevent and respond to sexual misconduct. The study sheds light on the problem of how few aid workers are held accountable when they have been discovered of committing sexual misconduct. This is a qualitative case study with focus on Oxfam GB.  The findings presents various areas in which Oxfam GB can strengthen their approaches to prevent and respond to sexual misconduct. To increase knowledge about SEAH, to develop guidelines and methods for how the management could respond when cases of SEAH occur. Reporting mechanisms have an important function to be able to detect cases of sexual misconduct. Furthermore, there needs to be greater focus on the individuals who have been exposed to some form of SEAH. The study further indicates a gap on these approaches to prevent and respond with regards to the legal aspect.