The introduction of the Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) Guidelines and Standards for the public sector in Guyana represents a decisive reaffirmation of ethical integrity and professional accountability. The initiative establishes a definitive framework for conduct within the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention and response ecosystem and forms part of the Government of Guyana’s broader strategy, led by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, to eliminate GBV in the country. This framework sets the highest ethical benchmark, translating a zero-tolerance stance on sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment into clear, actionable procedures, while promoting a culture of respect, dignity, and equality across all public sector institutions.
UNFPA, through its EQUAL SRHR programme funded by Global Affairs Canada, has played a key supporting role in the development and implementation of these guidelines. The organization has provided technical assistance to strengthen PSEAH in the workplace, including capacity-building initiatives, development of policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), training programmes, and establishment of complaint mechanisms. UNFPA’s collaboration with the Government of Guyana ensures that the public sector is equipped to meet international standards and best practices in preventing and responding to sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, under the leadership of the Honorable Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud, has actively implemented capacity-building measures in the public sector. These included PSEAH awareness sessions for approximately 360 public servants, the training of 23 individuals as PSEAH trainers, and the development of a dedicated PSEAH Trainer Manual. These efforts, combined with the creation of the PSEAH Guidelines and Standards, have strengthened institutional knowledge, skills, and operational capacity to address workplace sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment effectively.
The PSEAH Guidelines and Standards are expected to serve as a foundation for further initiatives within the public sector, including the development of strengthened rules, expanded training programmes, and robust monitoring, reporting, and response mechanisms. By equipping public servants with the necessary knowledge and tools, the initiative aims to prevent, mitigate, and respond to instances of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment, thereby enhancing Guyana’s overall national response to these issues and fostering a safer, more accountable workplace environment across both public and private sectors.
