Our Safeguarding Policy

Our Commitment

Equitable Community Development Organization (ECDO) is unconditionally committed to creating and maintaining a safe environment that prevents harm, abuse, and exploitation. We believe that everyone has a right to live their lives free from abuse in any form. Our safeguarding policy is guided by the following core principles:

Survivor-Centered Approach

We are committed to listening to survivors by acting on their recommendations with dignity and respect. Support for survivors is a priority, with their privacy and confidentiality strictly maintained. We strive to create an environment where survivors feel safe to engage and know that their engagement will not cause further harm.

Zero-Tolerance

ECDO takes a zero-tolerance approach to any form of harm, abuse, and exploitation, regardless of its gravity. Abuse or exploitation manifests when there is an imbalance of power. We do not tolerate the use of any perceived power imbalance to cause harm, and we stand against all forms of discrimination.

Shared Responsibility and Accountability

We believe safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. We ensure that all our employees, board members, partners, and affiliates understand their responsibilities and are held accountable for upholding our safeguarding standards.

Best Interests of Vulnerable Groups

The best interests of children, women, youth, and vulnerable adults are the top priority when enacting policies and operating our programs. We work to ensure their rights are fully realized and enable them to be active participants in the decisions that affect their lives.

Confidentiality and Safe Organizational Culture

We commit to keeping all sensitive information confidential and cultivating a respectful, safe environment in every aspect of our work. Any misconduct or violation of organizational policy will not be tolerated. ECDO is dedicated to continuous improvement by learning through our management processes, community engagement, and monitoring of best practices.

For more detailed information or to report a concern, please contact us directly and confidentially at ecdoet2024@gmail.com.