Security and Workplace Protection Policy

• Uphold and adhere to the values and working principles of YSI.
• Abide by and refer to the four core principles: humanity, impartiality, independence, and neutrality.
• Prioritize the call and dignity of humanity above all other interests.
• Implement programs and activities regardless of race, religion, or nationality of the recipients, and without favoritism. Assistance priorities are determined solely based on needs.
• Ensure that all activities are not used to serve any political or religious agenda.
• Commit not to act as an instrument of foreign policy, government, or any political interest group.
• Respect local cultures, customs, potential, and wisdom.
• Promote empowerment and advocacy based on local capacities in all programs carried out.
• Involve participants as subjects in the management of programs and activities through participatory approaches.
• When providing basic needs assistance during emergencies, strive to reduce future vulnerabilities.
• Be accountable to both those who receive assistance and those who provide resources.
• Information, publication, and campaign activities must treat participants as dignified human beings, not as mere objects of the activity.
• Respect and promote Human Rights without discrimination.
• Treat all communities with whom YSI works (including crisis-affected populations, Internally Displaced Persons, Survivors, and Refugees) fairly, respectfully, courteously, with dignity, and in accordance with International Laws and Standards.
• Promote the implementation of YSI’s ethical policies and regulations to contribute to the creation and maintenance of an environment that prevents sexual exploitation, abuse of power, and corruption.
• Immediately report any knowledge, concern, or strong suspicion of ethical violations to field management and/or YSI management with the authority to take prompt investigative action.
• Recognize that failure to disclose or intentional withholding of information regarding reports, concerns, or strong suspicions of violations of the Code of Ethics constitutes grounds for disciplinary action.
• Uphold the highest standards of accountability, efficiency, competence, integrity, and transparency in the procurement of goods and services during the execution of work.
• Cooperate when requested in investigations of alleged violations of the Code of Ethics.

All YSI Staff, Volunteers, Community Members, and Partners must understand and be aware that:

1. Sexual Exploitation and Abuse

   Sexual exploitation and abuse are forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). YSI recognizes that sexual exploitation and abuse can occur in the course of humanitarian aid delivery or management. These acts may take place during humanitarian crises, particularly in situations where affected populations are dependent on humanitarian agencies to meet their basic needs. Therefore, it is crucial to establish additional ethical responsibilities and obligations for all those involved.

2. Harassment

3. Conflict of Interest

   In performing duties and responsibilities, individuals are prohibited from engaging in business activities or any form of work that benefits themselves, violates values and principles, or contradicts any rules and guidelines related to their roles and obligations to YSI. It is strictly forbidden to misuse one's position to carry out personal work or conduct buying and selling activities for personal gain or the benefit of others, whether such activities occur within or outside YSI premises.

4. Abuse of Position

   It is prohibited to use one's position or title on behalf of the organization for political interests, investments, purchases, or similar activities, as well as for acts of violence, sexual harassment, violence against women and children, or any other unethical behavior. Using one’s position to gain special treatment from others that could lead to a conflict of interest or ethical misconduct is also not allowed.

5. Confidentiality

   Maintain the confidentiality of information related to YSI and ensure transparency in accordance with its scope and purpose. It is forbidden to use YSI's information for personal benefit. Furthermore, such information must not be disclosed, either directly or indirectly, to any individual or other organizations, unless necessary for assessing YSI's performance or enhancing its public image.

6. Fraud and Corruption

   YSI adopts a zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption. Staff, volunteers, and partners must never take advantage of their positions while working with communities.

7. Child Protection

   YSI may involve children directly or have staff, partners, and volunteers who engage with children during program implementation. These activities can increase the risk of abuse, exploitation, or neglect of children in the programs. Therefore, it is essential to respect all children as individuals regardless of their background, gender, or sexual orientation, and to provide and maintain a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for them.

8. Prevention of Gender-Based Violence

   Gender-based violence is considered a serious violation by YSI. The level of the case will be determined based on the results of an investigation.