The PEMA Secretariat and the United Nations in Bhutan signed a Letter of Understanding (LoU) on addressing complaints of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA).

Effective between December 10 and December 9 next year, this agreement underscores a joint commitment to uphold the rights and dignity of individuals, particularly survivors of SEA, by adopting a human rights-based and victim-survivor-centered approach.

The PEMA Secretariat will serve as the primary point of contact for receiving SEA complaints through its helpline 1098 and other established channels. Complaints will be promptly communicated to the UN Bhutan Resident Coordinator and PSEA Coordinator to facilitate timely action. Survivors will be connected to essential services, ensuring their consent is at the forefront of all interventions.

As part of the agreement, The PEMA Secretariat will serve as a community-based complaint mechanism for addressing complaints against UN personnel and partners, enhancing the efficiency and consistency of SEA responses across Bhutan.

The United Nations in Bhutan will provide specialized training for The PEMA Secretariat’s complaint intake teams. The training will emphasize victim-survivor-centered methodologies and human rights-based approaches to SEA case management.

The LoU paves the way for the development of shared training packages, regular consultations, and ongoing improvements to referral pathways. The partnership will strengthen Bhutan’s efforts to prevent and address SEA while reinforcing its commitment to human rights.