Preventing sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment

Safeguarding in New Zealand’s IDC Programme

MFAT is committed to preventing and responding to harm across New Zealand's International Development Cooperation (IDC) programme. Our safeguarding approach is guided by the Do No Harm principle and promotes safe, respectful and accountable practices that protect the rights, dignity and wellbeing of all people. We take a victim-survivor-centred approach to concerns and incidents, prioritising the safety, dignity, rights and choices of those affected.

Preventing Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH)

MFAT has zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment, and is committed to ensuring concerns, allegations and incidents are identified, reported and responded to appropriately.

In 2018, New Zealand joined an international commitment to strengthen action to prevent and respond to sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment across the international development sector.

MFAT introduced its Preventing Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH) Policy in 2019. It was revised August 2025 to strengthen expectations and align with international safeguarding standards and best practice across New Zealand's International Development Cooperation (IDC) programme.

MFAT's PSEAH Policy and Standards set out the minimum requirements for organisations, suppliers and delivery partners receiving New Zealand IDC funding. They provide a framework for identifying, managing and responding to PSEAH risks and incidents, and support safe, accountable and people-centred development practice.

Child Protection

MFAT has zero tolerance for violence, abuse, exploitation, neglect and harm against children, and is committed to promoting their safety, wellbeing and rights across all activities funded through New Zealand's International Development Cooperation (IDC) programme.

The IDC Child Protection Policy and accompanying standards, in effect since March 2025, set out the minimum requirements for organisations, suppliers and delivery partners receiving New Zealand IDC funding. They provide a framework to identify, prevent and respond to child protection risks and concerns and support safe, accountable development practice.

The policy is guided by the best interests of the child, MFAT's Do No Harm principle, and the shared responsibility of organisations and individuals to create safe environments for children and respond appropriately when concerns arise.

Reporting Concerns or Incidents

If you have concerns about sexual exploitation, abuse or harassment, or about the safety and wellbeing of a child at risk involved in a New Zealand IDC Programme funded activity, please complete the reporting form below and email it to safeguarding@mfat.govt.nz.

Other New Zealand based support

In an emergency call 111 (if you or someone you know is in immediate danger)
Safe to Talk: Sexual Harm Helpline(external link) 0800 044 3334
Lifeline Aotearoa(external link) 0800 LIFELINE / 0800 54 33 54