Child Protection Policy

Child Protection Policy

1. Introduction and Purpose

HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V.  is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare, rights, and dignity of all children involved in our activities. We recognise our duty of care to protect children from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation in accordance with:

• The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)
• The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (Articles 24 and 32)
• Relevant national child protection laws and regulations

This policy outlines our principles, procedures, and standards to ensure a safe environment for all children participating in, or affected by, our programmes.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• All employees, consultants and interns of HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V.
• Volunteers and board members
• Contractors, service providers, and associated partners involved in our projects
• Any individual representing or acting on behalf of HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V.

It covers all interactions with children during activities, online platforms, events, trainings, and communication.

3. Guiding Principles

• Best Interests of the Child – All decisions and actions must prioritise the best interests of children.
• Zero Tolerance – HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V. has zero tolerance towards any form of child abuse or exploitation.
• Non-Discrimination – All children must be protected equally, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, migration status, or any other characteristic.
• Participation – Children have the right to be heard, to express their views, and to be involved in decisions affecting them.
• Accountability – Every adult working with HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V.  is responsible for ensuring child safety.

4. Definitions

• Child: Any person under the age of 18.
• Abuse: Includes physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation (commercial or otherwise).
• Safeguarding: Proactive actions taken to protect children’s health, development, and wellbeing.

5. Code of Conduct for Staff and Volunteers

All staff, volunteers, and partners must:

• Treat all children with respect and dignity.
• Use appropriate language and behaviour at all times.
• Ensure that children are never left alone with one adult (two-adult rule applies where possible).
• Obtain informed consent from parents/guardians for participation, photos, or recordings.
• Respect children’s privacy and confidentiality.
• Avoid any physical punishment, humiliation, or degrading treatment.
• Use digital communication responsibly, avoiding private or inappropriate online contact with children.

Prohibited actions:

• Any form of abuse, exploitation, or harassment.
• Offering alcohol, drugs, or inappropriate materials to children.
• Favouritism or special treatment that could be misinterpreted.
• Transporting children alone without prior consent and authorisation.

6. Risk Assessment and Prevention

HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V. will conduct risk assessments for all activities involving children. This includes:

• Venue safety (accessibility, emergency exits, supervision).
• Online activity safety (moderation, data protection, parental consent).
• Travel, accommodation, or events involving minors.
• Background checks (where legally possible) for staff and volunteers in direct contact with children.

7. Reporting and Response Procedures

Any suspicion, allegation, or disclosure of child abuse must be treated seriously and reported immediately.

Reporting Channels:

• Designated Child Protection Officer (CPO): [Name, Role, Contact]
• Anonymous reporting option: [Email / Hotline]

Procedure:

1. Record details factually and without delay.
2. Report to the CPO within 24 hours.
3. The CPO will assess the case, consult with management, and decide on next steps.
4. If necessary, refer to national child protection services, police, or relevant authorities.

No staff member may investigate independently. Confidentiality will be maintained at all times.

8. Training and Awareness

• All staff, volunteers, and partners will receive mandatory training on child safeguarding.
• Refresher courses will be offered annually.
• Awareness sessions will be provided for children and parents on their rights and reporting mechanisms.

9. Data Protection and Privacy

• Personal data of children will be processed in compliance with GDPR and national laws.
• No child’s personal information will be shared publicly without explicit consent.
• All digital platforms used by HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V. will apply privacy-by-design safeguards.

10. Monitoring, Review and Accountability

• This policy will be reviewed annually by the Child Protection Committee and updated where necessary.
• Monitoring tools include feedback from children, parents, and staff.
• Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary measures, termination of contract, or legal action.

11. Designated Responsibilities

• Child Protection Officer (CPO): Responsible for policy implementation, training, and case management.
• Management Board: Ensures resources and oversight.
• All Staff and Volunteers: Responsible for compliance and reporting concerns.

12. Declaration

I, the undersigned, confirm that I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V. Child Protection Policy.

HRD- Human Rights Defenders e.V.
Chairman