1. Our Commitment

The International Youth Federation (IYF) is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all individuals engaged in or affected by its work. Safeguarding and protection are fundamental to IYF’s mission and values, and to the trust placed in the organisation by young people, communities, partners, and volunteers worldwide.

IYF has zero tolerance for all forms of abuse, exploitation, harassment, or harm. We are committed to preventing sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.


2. Scope and Applicability

This Safeguarding & Protection framework applies to:

  • All IYF staff, volunteers, interns, consultants, and representatives
  • Members of governing bodies and leadership
  • Partner organisations and individuals acting on behalf of IYF

Safeguarding obligations apply globally, across all IYF programmes, events, offices, and activities, whether conducted in person or online.


3. Safeguarding Principles

IYF’s safeguarding approach is guided by the following principles:

  • Do no harm: All actions must prioritise safety and well-being
  • Prevention: Safeguarding risks must be identified and mitigated proactively
  • Accountability: All personnel are responsible for upholding safeguarding standards
  • Confidentiality: Information is handled sensitively and responsibly
  • Survivor-centred approach: The rights, dignity, and wishes of affected persons are respected
  • Non-retaliation: No individual will suffer adverse consequences for reporting concerns in good faith


4. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviours are strictly prohibited and constitute serious misconduct:

  • Sexual exploitation or abuse of any kind
  • Sexual activity with children (anyone under 18), regardless of local laws or consent
  • Exchange of money, goods, services, or assistance for sexual acts
  • Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or discrimination
  • Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse
  • Abuse of power, position, or trust
  • Any behaviour that compromises the safety or dignity of others


5. Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults

IYF recognises that children, young people, and vulnerable adults may face increased risks of harm. All IYF personnel must:

  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times
  • Avoid one-to-one situations without safeguards where possible
  • Never engage in exploitative, inappropriate, or abusive relationships
  • Act immediately if a child or vulnerable person may be at risk


6. Responsibilities

All IYF Personnel

  • Understand and comply with this Safeguarding & Protection framework
  • Behave in a manner consistent with IYF values and standards
  • Report safeguarding concerns promptly

Managers and Supervisors

  • Promote a safeguarding-aware culture
  • Ensure team members understand safeguarding obligations
  • Take immediate action when concerns are raised

IYF Leadership

  • Ensure safeguarding policies are implemented and reviewed
  • Provide appropriate reporting mechanisms and oversight
  • Ensure accountability and corrective action where required


7. Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

Reports can be made through designated IYF reporting channels or to a responsible manager or safeguarding focal point. Failure to report known or suspected safeguarding concerns may itself constitute misconduct.Any safeguarding concern, suspicion, or allegation must be reported as soon as possible, including:

  • Actual or suspected abuse
  • Inappropriate behaviour
  • Breaches of this policy

All reports will be:

  • Treated confidentially
  • Assessed promptly
  • Handled without retaliation


8. Response and Investigation

IYF prioritises the safety and well-being of affected individuals throughout any response process. IYF is committed to responding to safeguarding concerns in a timely, fair, and appropriate manner. Responses may include:

  • Immediate protective measures
  • Internal review or investigation
  • Referral to relevant authorities, where required
  • Disciplinary action, including termination of engagement


9. Confidentiality and Data Protection

Safeguarding information is handled with strict confidentiality and shared only on a need-to-know basis. All data is processed in accordance with applicable data protection laws and IYF privacy standards.


10. Compliance and Consequences

Compliance with safeguarding obligations is a condition of engagement with IYF. Failure to comply with this Safeguarding & Protection framework may result in:

  • Disciplinary measures
  • Termination of employment, volunteer assignment, or partnership
  • Legal or regulatory action where applicable


11. Acknowledgement

All individuals engaged with IYF may be required to confirm that they have read, understood, and agree to comply with this Safeguarding & Protection framework.