On June 2, 2026, a workshop on Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP) and Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) was held, organized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for partner organizations.
The event brought together AAP and PSEA focal points, as well as management representatives from UNHCR’s partner organizations, with the aim of updating knowledge on international standards and exchanging practices for their implementation.
During the workshop, participants discussed key approaches to accountability to people receiving assistance, including issues of meaningful community participation in decision-making, developing feedback and complaint mechanisms, communicating with communities, and using received feedback to improve programs. Special attention was paid to the Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) approach, which helps to account for different needs and barriers to accessing assistance.
The second part of the event focused on standards for protection from sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA), including issues of internal organizational capacity, staff training, working with contractors, mechanisms for reporting violations, and supporting affected persons. Participants also updated their knowledge of key PSEA standards that are mandatory for UNHCR partners.
Caritas Ukraine’s involvement in such events allows strengthening the safeguarding and accountability system, as well as ensuring compliance with international humanitarian standards. Marta Yatsyshyn, Caritas Ukraine’s Safeguarding Policy and System Implementation Manager, participated in the workshop.
