“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
1. Introduction
CKG recognizes gender-based violence (GBV) as a serious violation of human rights, dignity, and safety. As a faith-based organization serving vulnerable communities, we are committed to preventing GBV, protecting survivors, and promoting healing and justice through biblical values and social accountability.
2. Purpose
This policy aims to:
- Provide a clear framework for preventing and responding to GBV.
- Protect all individuals who engage with CKG, especially women, children, and marginalized groups.
- Promote a safe, respectful, and empowering environment in all CKG programs and activities.
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All CKG staff, board members, volunteers, interns, and partners.
- All program beneficiaries, including children, youth, and women.
- All locations where CKG operates — including offices, churches, workshops, and community centers.
4. Definitions
- Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Any act of physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm directed at a person based on their gender. This includes domestic violence, rape, sexual harassment, child sexual abuse, forced marriage, and emotional abuse.
- Survivor: A person who has experienced GBV. CKG recognizes and respects this term as more empowering than “victim.”
- Perpetrator: A person who commits or threatens to commit an act of GBV.
5. Guiding Principles
CKG’s response to GBV is based on the following principles:
- Zero Tolerance: No form of GBV is acceptable in any circumstance.
- Confidentiality: All reports will be handled discreetly and respectfully.
- Survivor-Centered Approach: We prioritize the safety, dignity, and wishes of the survivor.
- Faith and Justice: We believe God calls us to protect the vulnerable and act against injustice.
6. Prevention Strategies
CKG will:
- Educate: Provide GBV training to all staff, volunteers, and community leaders.
- Raise Awareness: Conduct community dialogues, sermons, and campaigns addressing harmful gender norms.
- Screen Staff & Volunteers: Conduct background checks for those working with children, women, or vulnerable groups.
- Empower Leaders: Train pastors and facilitators to be proactive in preventing GBV and creating safe spaces.
7. Response Procedures
When a case of GBV is reported or observed:
Step 1: Ensure Safety
- Ensure the immediate safety of the survivor.
- Remove the survivor from danger if necessary and secure medical or emotional support.
Step 2: Listen and Document
- Listen without judgment. Do not pressure the survivor to share more than they are comfortable.
- Fill out a confidential GBV Incident Report Form.
Step 3: Refer
- Refer the survivor to professional services:
- Local hospital or clinic (for medical care and evidence collection)
- Police or legal services (if the survivor wishes to report)
- Social workers or counselors (for ongoing support)
Step 4: Report Internally
- Inform CKG’s Designated GBV Officer (a trained staff or board member).
- Report to authorities if required by law (e.g., in cases involving minors).
8. Support for Survivors
CKG will:
- Provide trauma-informed counseling or prayer support, with the survivor’s consent.
- Offer transportation or accompany the survivor to clinics or police stations if needed.
- Never blame, silence, or shame survivors.
9. Disciplinary Action
- Any staff, volunteer, or board member found to have committed GBV will be immediately suspended and reported to authorities.
- CKG will not tolerate retaliation or intimidation against any person who reports abuse.
10. Monitoring and Accountability
- This policy will be reviewed annually.
- CKG will collect feedback from staff, volunteers, and survivors (confidentially) to improve protection systems.
- Any failure to act on GBV cases will be treated as gross negligence.
11. Faith Foundation
CKG’s commitment to ending gender-based violence is grounded in our belief that:
“All people are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), and are worthy of safety, dignity, and love.”
As Citizens in the Kingdom of God, we are called to uphold righteousness, confront injustice, and be a refuge for the hurting.
12. Adoption and Review
This policy is adopted by the Board of Directors of Citizen in the Kingdom of God(CKG) on: [Insert Date]
| Name | Position | Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Chairperson | ||
| Secretary | ||
| GBV Officer |
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