Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 BackgroundRefugee Pathways & Integration Canada (RefPIC) is committed to promoting gender equality and eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) in all its operations and initiatives. GBV represents a severe violation of human rights, affecting the dignity, safety, and well-being of individuals, particularly women, girls, and marginalized populations. This policy acknowledges that achieving gender equality is integral to fostering inclusive, equitable communities and supporting the resilience of refugees and displaced persons.

RefPIC recognizes the disproportionate impact of GBV on vulnerable populations, including refugees and displaced persons, who often face heightened risks due to precarious living conditions, legal vulnerabilities, and lack of access to support systems. This policy serves as a framework for creating a safe and respectful environment within all RefPIC programs and partnerships.

1.2 ObjectiveThe Gender Equality and GBV Policy aims to:(a) Establish clear guidelines for preventing, addressing, and responding to GBV in all aspects of RefPIC’s work.(b) Promote gender equality and empower individuals of all genders to participate fully and equally in their communities.(c) Ensure access to safe, confidential, and survivor-centered mechanisms for reporting GBV and seeking support.(d) Foster partnerships and collaborations that prioritize gender-sensitive practices and uphold human rights.

Chapter 2: Purpose and Scope

2.1 Scope of ApplicationThis policy applies to all aspects of RefPIC’s operations and engagements, including:(a) Employees, volunteers, and interns working under RefPIC’s programs.(b) Partner organizations and stakeholders involved in implementing RefPIC initiatives.(c) Refugees, displaced persons, and host community members supported by RefPIC programs.

It covers all forms of gender-based violence and ensures that RefPIC’s operations align with international standards and best practices for gender equality and GBV prevention.

2.2 Target GroupsThis policy is particularly designed to address the needs of:(a) Refugees and displaced persons, especially women, girls, and other vulnerable groups.(b) Marginalized populations who are disproportionately affected by gender inequality and GBV.(c) Communities and stakeholders engaged in fostering gender equality and supporting survivors of GBV.

Chapter 3: Definitions of Gender-Based Violence

3.1 Forms of Gender-Based ViolenceGBV encompasses a range of harmful behaviors and practices, including but not limited to:(a) Physical violence: Acts such as assault, domestic abuse, and physical coercion.(b) Sexual violence: Including rape, sexual exploitation, sexual harassment, and trafficking.(c) Psychological violence: Emotional abuse, intimidation, and controlling behaviors that undermine a person’s mental well-being.(d) Economic violence: Deprivation of access to financial resources, property, or opportunities to earn income.

3.2 Legal Definitions(a) International Frameworks: GBV is defined under key international conventions, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women.(b) National Laws: RefPIC adheres to the legal definitions and frameworks of the jurisdictions in which it operates, ensuring alignment with national regulations and legal obligations.(c) Organizational Definition: RefPIC adopts a holistic understanding of GBV, encompassing behaviors that harm individuals based on their gender, perpetuate inequality, or create unsafe environments.

Chapter 4: Commitment to Gender Equality

4.1 Gender MainstreamingRefPIC is dedicated to integrating gender considerations into every aspect of its programs, policies, and partnerships. Gender mainstreaming involves ensuring that all programs are designed and implemented with an awareness of gender dynamics, striving to address inequalities and promote the empowerment of all genders.

This commitment is reflected through:(a) Program Design: Incorporating gender-sensitive needs assessments and consultations with women, men, and marginalized groups to ensure equitable participation.(b) Implementation: Ensuring that gender equality principles guide resource allocation, staff recruitment, and capacity-building initiatives.(c) Evaluation: Regularly assessing program outcomes to measure progress toward gender equality and adjust strategies as needed.

4.2 Promoting Gender-Sensitive PracticesRefPIC actively fosters gender-sensitive practices in its operations and partnerships by:(a) Establishing workplace policies that support equal opportunities and fair treatment for all employees, regardless of gender.(b) Encouraging male allies and champions of gender equality to actively participate in promoting positive change.(c) Partnering with organizations that share RefPIC’s values and commitment to advancing gender equality and addressing GBV.

Chapter 5: Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence

5.1 Preventative MeasuresRefPIC employs robust prevention strategies to minimize the risk of GBV in its operations and programs. These include:(a) Awareness Campaigns: Conducting educational initiatives to challenge harmful stereotypes, raise awareness about GBV, and promote respect for human rights.(b) Safe Environments: Establishing secure and accessible facilities, such as well-lit shelters and separate accommodations for vulnerable groups.(c) Policies and Protocols: Ensuring that all staff and volunteers are trained on GBV prevention policies and reporting mechanisms.

5.2 Response MechanismsIn the event of GBV, RefPIC prioritizes a survivor-centered response that ensures dignity, confidentiality, and access to support. Response mechanisms include:(a) Dedicated Support Services: Providing survivors with access to medical care, legal aid, and psychosocial support.(b) Case Management: Establishing clear processes for handling GBV cases, including timelines for reporting, investigation, and resolution.(c) Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations and service providers to ensure comprehensive and culturally appropriate responses.

Chapter 6: Support for Victims and Survivors

6.1 Access to Health and Legal ServicesRefPIC ensures that survivors of GBV have access to essential services, including:(a) Medical Care: Offering immediate healthcare services, such as treatment for injuries, post-rape care, and access to mental health professionals.(b) Legal Assistance: Facilitating access to legal support, including representation in cases of prosecution and assistance with documentation for refugees and displaced persons.(c) Referral Networks: Establishing partnerships with local healthcare providers, legal aid organizations, and protection agencies to ensure timely and effective assistance.

6.2 Emotional and Psychological SupportRecognizing the lasting impact of GBV, RefPIC provides long-term emotional and psychological support to survivors through:(a) Counseling Services: Offering trauma-informed counseling to help survivors cope with their experiences and rebuild their lives.(b) Support Groups: Creating safe spaces for survivors to share their experiences, foster mutual support, and build resilience.(c) Empowerment Programs: Encouraging survivors to participate in skills training, education, and employment initiatives to regain independence and confidence.

Chapter 7: Reporting and Complaint Mechanisms

7.1 Reporting ProceduresRefPIC ensures accessible and confidential channels for reporting GBV, including:(a) Hotlines and Online Platforms: Providing 24/7 hotlines and secure digital platforms for reporting incidents anonymously.(b) Dedicated Staff: Appointing trained Gender Focal Points to receive and manage reports while ensuring confidentiality.(c) Multiple Entry Points: Allowing reports through various channels, such as direct supervisors, independent investigators, or external partners.

7.2 Protection of ComplainantsTo encourage reporting and protect complainants, RefPIC has implemented:(a) Non-Retaliation Policies: Ensuring that individuals who report GBV are protected from retaliation, discrimination, or victimization.(b) Confidentiality Measures: Safeguarding the identities of complainants and survivors to prevent further harm or stigmatization.(c) Survivor-Centered Approach: Prioritizing the safety, dignity, and autonomy of survivors in all actions taken following a report.

Chapter 8: Roles and Responsibilities

8.1 Organizational RolesRefPIC recognizes that promoting gender equality and addressing GBV require the active involvement of all organizational levels. Key responsibilities include:(a) Leadership: The Executive Team and Board of Directors are accountable for ensuring that gender equality and GBV prevention are integral to the organization’s mission, policies, and practices.(b) Gender Focal Points: Designated staff members act as Gender Focal Points, providing guidance, facilitating training, and monitoring compliance with gender and GBV policies.(c) Program Managers: Managers are responsible for integrating gender-sensitive approaches into program design, implementation, and evaluation.

8.2 Staff and Partner ResponsibilitiesAll staff, volunteers, and partners share a collective responsibility to uphold RefPIC’s values and adhere to gender equality and GBV policies by:(a) Compliance: Familiarizing themselves with the policy and attending mandatory training sessions.(b) Role Modeling: Demonstrating respectful behavior and actively promoting an inclusive workplace culture.(c) Accountability: Reporting incidents of GBV and cooperating fully with investigations.

Chapter 9: Training and Awareness

9.1 Capacity Building for StaffRefPIC prioritizes ongoing training and education to equip staff, volunteers, and partners with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent and address GBV. This includes:(a) Mandatory Training: All employees and volunteers must complete training on gender equality, GBV prevention, and reporting procedures during their onboarding process.(b) Advanced Modules: Offering specialized training for staff in leadership roles, investigators, and Gender Focal Points to deepen their expertise.(c) Refresher Courses: Conducting regular updates to ensure alignment with emerging best practices and international standards.

9.2 Community Awareness InitiativesRefPIC actively engages with host communities to foster awareness and promote behavioral change through:(a) Educational Campaigns: Organizing workshops, public forums, and media campaigns to challenge harmful gender norms and highlight the importance of gender equality.(b) Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations, schools, and community leaders to amplify the impact of awareness initiatives.(c) Feedback Mechanisms: Encouraging communities to provide input on GBV prevention and response efforts to ensure cultural sensitivity and relevance.

Chapter 10: Monitoring and Review

10.1 Monitoring of GBV Prevention EffortsTo ensure the effectiveness of gender equality and GBV prevention strategies, RefPIC has established comprehensive monitoring systems, including:(a) Data Collection: Gathering quantitative and qualitative data on GBV incidents, training participation, and program outcomes.(b) Indicators: Using measurable indicators to assess progress, such as increased reporting rates and reduced incidence of GBV.(c) Third-Party Audits: Engaging independent evaluators to assess compliance with the policy and recommend improvements.

10.2 Policy Review and UpdatesRecognizing the dynamic nature of gender equality and GBV issues, RefPIC commits to regularly reviewing and updating the policy:(a) Annual Reviews: Conducting annual evaluations to incorporate feedback from staff, partners, and beneficiaries and align with changes in legal or social contexts.(b) Emergency Revisions: Making immediate amendments in response to emerging risks, incidents, or regulatory changes.(c) Stakeholder Consultation: Involving diverse stakeholders, including community representatives and gender experts, to ensure that updates reflect evolving needs and best practices.