PSEA means Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. In humanitarian and development programmes, donors may expect organizations to show how they prevent SEA, receive reports safely, respond appropriately and ensure staff and partners understand their obligations.
The Inter-Agency Standing Committee maintains PSEA guidance and referral resources that emphasize prevention, reporting mechanisms, survivor assistance and organizational accountability.
What should a proposal show?
- Clear code-of-conduct expectations.
- Staff and partner training.
- Safe reporting channels.
- Confidential referral pathways.
- Investigation and escalation procedures.
- Partner PSEA requirements.
- Senior leadership accountability.
PSEA is not just an HR issue
Risk can arise through recruitment, distributions, cash assistance, community outreach, referrals, transport, accommodation and partner delivery. The controls should match how the project operates.
Reporting channels must be safe
Beneficiaries should not have to report concerns only through the same people who control access to aid or services.
Plan for survivor support
Referral pathways should identify appropriate services and preserve safety, confidentiality and informed consent.
The Grant Evidence Inventory can help organize proof of policies, training, complaint channels and referral systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PSEA the same as safeguarding?
PSEA is part of the broader safeguarding framework.
Does PSEA apply to partners?
Yes where partners deliver activities or interact with affected populations.
Should every project have a PSEA focal point?
Not necessarily, but responsibility must be clearly assigned.
Can anonymous reporting be useful?
Yes, where it can be managed safely and fairly.
What is the biggest mistake?
Treating PSEA as a policy attachment instead of an operating control.
Conclusion
PSEA credibility comes from systems, not slogans. Strong proposals show how prevention, reporting, referral and accountability will work in the real project context.
Source
IASC/PSEA: Referral Pathway Resources