By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, has called for urgent need to combat the pervasive issue of sexual violence within international organizations pointing out that such acts not only violate human rights but also undermine the integrity and effectiveness of these institutions
Giving remarks at the Interactive Awareness-Raising Theatre for the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment in International Cooperation, Senator Mutsvangwa noted that that sexual exploitation in international cooperation is often underreported, as many assume that those working in these agencies cannot commit violence against each other or the communities they serve.
“What is most disheartening to note is that sexual exploitation in international cooperation is the least reported case of human rights violations. The general assumption is that people who work in international cooperation agencies are human rights defenders hence they can not perpetrate violence against each other or the people they serve.” She said
Senator Mutsvangwa also highlighted the troubling trend of workers in these agencies being implicated in sexual exploitation, particularly when distributing resources and has underscored the importance of addressing power dynamics that allow for such abuses, stressing that these actions betray the fundamental principles of dignity and respect.
“As Government, we have also noted a troubling trend where workers within international cooperation agencies have been implicated in perpetuating sexual exploitation and abuse, particularly as they distribute resources and aid in communities.” she noted
Never the less to combat these issues, the Zimbabwean government is implementing strict policies against sexual exploitation and abuse, including clear reporting mechanisms and a culture of accountability.
“The Government of Zimbabwe has thus signed several international, continental and regional instruments on GBV and Gender Equality such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women , the Beijing Platform for Action, and the Sustainable Development Goals”.
The government has committed to eliminating gender-based violence (GBV) through various international agreements and has established the High-Level Political Compact on Ending GBV, signed in 2021.
Additionally, the Public Service Commission has developed a Sexual Harassment Policy to guide public sector agencies in addressing sexual violence in the workplace.
Senator Mutsvangwa expressed gratitude to the Swiss Embassy for their support in raising awareness and pledged her Ministry’s collaboration in reaching broader audiences through devolved structures.