Why trust matters in SEAH investigations

Sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (SEAH) is a grave issue in the humanitarian and development sector. Recent data from the SEAH Harmonised Reporting Scheme (HRS) indicates a concerning trend with 94% of reported victims/survivors being women, including one in three being a girl under 18. It is widely acknowledged that there is a need for more female investigators. To address this, the Investigator Qualification Training Scheme (IQTS) equips more practitioners, including women and individuals from the global majority, with a survivor-centered approach to investigations. We explore its impact through the story of Jeannette Nduwamariya.

Learning never stops

Based in Rwanda, Jeannette’s responsibilities as Global Safeguarding Advisor at CARE include supporting country offices in East and Central Africa, Southern Africa, and francophone countries in West Africa. Focusing on protection from sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (PSEAH), she creates awareness among senior leadership teams and the organization’s partners, both local CSOs and INGOs.

Additionally, Jeannette supports HR teams to implement recruitment practices that prevent hiring individuals with a history of safeguarding issues or accusations of SEAH. Trained as a gender expert and project manager early in her career, with additional investigation training in 2011, Jeannette brings a strong foundation to her role through which she also conducts extensive investigations.

Experience aside, Jeannette recognizes the value of continuous learning. She points out that tapping into the knowledge of other professionals is key for everyone, no matter what you think you know. Embracing this mindset, in 2023, Jeannette participated in the IQTS Tier 3 pilot training led by CHS Alliance. This opportunity allowed her to learn from and exchange ideas with other experts and eventually apply the standards in her work.

Tier 3 is a practice-focused course that builds on the learnings and theory of Tier 2. This fully online training strengthens participants’ skills in three core areas:

• Developing a thorough investigation plan
• Conducting sensitive SEAH interviews
• Writing a SEAH investigation report

To become a qualified investigator under IQTS, practitioners must complete and pass all three tiers of training.

A survivor-centered approach

Seeking to prioritize survivor-centered investigations in her work, IQTS deepened Jeannette’s understanding of this approach. Exploring topics such as informed consent—including for child victims/survivors—the course highlighted areas where existing practices could be improved. It also challenged Jeannette and her peers to reassess their approaches, ensuring they provide the best possible support in their organizations.

Jeannette noted the many questions that emerged during the training, including those about survivor-centered safeguarding policies, the needs and wishes of victims/survivors, and the importance of ensuring their safety and dignity. As she describes below, it was an opportunity to explore these concepts and strengthen her knowledge of their practical application.

Humentum · Jeannette discusses what it means to truly support victims/survivors in the context of SEAH investigations

Given that available data points to one in three victims/survivors not seeking assistance, trust-building becomes even more critical. As the HRS report emphasizes, this may stem from concerns about “stigma or a mistrust in the effectiveness and confidentiality” of available assistance. By creating a safe and supportive environment, victims/survivors may feel more encouraged to participate in an investigation should they choose to.

Putting people first in SEAH investigations

An opportunity for self-reflection, IQTS challenged Jeannette to re-examine her current way of working. It also allowed collaboration, encouraging an open mind to new insights and fresh perspectives. Through this experience, Jeannette acknowledged that the routine of investigative work can sometimes lead to overlooking better methods.

Beyond the focus on professional growth, IQTS emphasized the human impact of investigations, exploring how investigative processes affect everyone involved, from victims/survivors and witnesses to the subjects of complaints. This focus shifts the perspective from “what” to investigate to the “how” of conducting investigations.

From theory to action

Through this learning journey, Jeannette has become a stronger advocate for survivor-centered investigations. Determined to follow best practices, she ensures her investigations are conducted sensitively, prioritizing safety, confidentiality, and victim/survivor wellbeing.