Our Commitment to Safeguarding

The Adolescent Girls Summit (AGS) is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, protective, and nurturing environment for all participants, particularly young people under 18 years of age. We have zero tolerance for any form of abuse, exploitation, harassment, or harmful behavior.

This Safeguarding Policy outlines our commitment, procedures, and expectations to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants in our programs and activities.

Scope and Application

This policy applies to:

• All AGS staff, volunteers, consultants, and contractors
• Partner organization representatives and delegates
• All program participants, regardless of age
• Funders, sponsors, and other stakeholders engaging with AGS
• All AGS activities, events, and digital platforms

Geographic Coverage

This policy applies to all AGS activities whether conducted in person or virtually, and in any country where AGS operates or has partnerships.

Recognizing Abuse and Harm

We recognize several categories of abuse and harmful behavior that are strictly prohibited:

Physical Abuse

• Any form of physical violence or assault
• Inappropriate physical contact or restraint
• Physical punishment or corporal discipline
• Causing physical harm through negligence

Sexual Abuse and Exploitation

• Any sexual activity with a person under 18
• Sexual harassment or inappropriate sexual behavior
• Exploitation for sexual purposes
• Sharing or possession of explicit images of minors
• Grooming behaviors or inappropriate relationships

Emotional and Psychological Abuse

• Verbal abuse, threats, or intimidation
• Humiliation or degrading treatment
• Discrimination or harassment based on identity
• Isolation or exclusion from activities

Neglect and Negligence

• Failure to provide adequate supervision
• Ignoring safety protocols or risk assessments
• Failure to respond to disclosed concerns
• Inadequate provision of basic needs during programs

Prevention Measures

Safe Recruitment

• Background checks for all staff and volunteers
• Reference verification from previous employers
• Interview questions addressing safeguarding scenarios
• Clear job descriptions outlining safeguarding responsibilities
• Probationary periods with ongoing assessment

Training and Capacity Building

• Mandatory safeguarding training for all team members
• Regular refresher training and updates
• Specialized training for those working directly with minors
• Cultural competency and trauma-informed care training
• Clear guidance on appropriate behavior and boundaries

Program Design

• Age-appropriate activities and content
• Adequate supervision ratios (minimum 1:8 for under 18s)
• Clear behavior codes and expectations
• Safe spaces for private conversations when needed
• Regular check-ins with participants about their well-being

Code of Conduct

All individuals associated with AGS must adhere to the following standards:

Required Behaviors

• Treat all participants with respect, dignity, and fairness
• Maintain appropriate physical and emotional boundaries
• Create inclusive and supportive environments
• Act as positive role models at all times
• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately
• Respect confidentiality while prioritizing safety

Prohibited Behaviors

• Engaging in any form of abuse or exploitation
• Developing inappropriate relationships with participants
• Sharing personal contact information with minors
• Meeting participants alone outside of program activities
• Providing gifts or special favors to individuals
• Using language, images, or behavior that is inappropriate
• Consuming alcohol or illegal substances during program time
• Discriminating against or bullying any participant

Photography and Digital Safety

Photography Guidelines

• Written consent required for all photography of participants under 18
• Group photos preferred over individual portraits of minors
• Appropriate dress and poses in all photographs
• No photography in private spaces (accommodation, bathrooms)
• Images should promote dignity and avoid stereotyping

Digital Communication

• Use official AGS communication channels only
• No private social media contact with participants under 18
• All digital communications should be transparent and appropriate
• Cyberbullying and online harassment are strictly prohibited
• Report any concerning online behavior immediately

Support for Survivors

AGS is committed to supporting anyone who has experienced abuse or harm:

• Immediate safety and protection measures
• Access to counseling and psychological support
• Medical care and treatment if needed
• Legal support and advocacy
• Continued participation in programs when appropriate and safe
• Long-term follow-up and monitoring

Confidentiality

We maintain strict confidentiality while ensuring necessary information is shared with appropriate authorities and support services. Information is only shared on a need-to-know basis to ensure safety and provide appropriate support.

Implementation and Monitoring

Governance Structure

• Safeguarding Focal Point: Senior staff member responsible for policy implementation
• Safeguarding Committee: Multi-disciplinary team overseeing safeguarding practices
• External Advisory Panel: Independent experts providing guidance and oversight
• Partner Network: Collaboration with local child protection agencies

Regular Review

• Annual policy review and update
• Regular risk assessments for all activities
• Participant feedback and evaluation
• External safeguarding audits
• Continuous improvement based on learning and best practices

Legal Framework

This policy is informed by and compliant with:

• UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
• African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child
• National child protection laws in countries where we operate
• International safeguarding standards and best practices
• Global Fund for Children's safeguarding policies