By:MODOU SARR
Abubacarr Suleiman Jeng National Security Adviser has said that gender equality, professionalism and ethical conduct are not optional ideals but core requirements of effective security governance. Mr Jeng made this remarks during the launch of two security sector policies at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center on Tuesday. The policies are, the generic gender mainstreaming policy (GGMP) and the generic sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse ( SHEA).
NSA Jeng stated that the event marks a significant milestone in the national security sector reform journey and it reflects our collective commitment to building professionalism, inclusivity, accountability and people centered security institutions that will serve all Gambians with integrity, fairness and respect for fundamental human rights.
The security sector he noted, plays a critical role in safeguarding peace, stability and the rule of law. However, security is not only about protecting people, upholding rights and maintaining public trust. A security sector that does not reflect the diversity of society or that tolerates discrimination, harassment or abuse, cannot effectively fulfilled its mandate.
Commenting on the framework of the sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, NSA Abubacarr Suleiman Jeng outlined the policy establishes a clear and equivocal standards of conduct for all personal across the security institutions. It affirms a zero tolerance approach to sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, whether committed against collegues, subordinates or members of the public
According to NSA Jeng, the policy sets out clear definitions, confidential reporting mechanisms, survivor centered response, procedures and safeguards against retaliation. It also establishes accountability measures to ensure that allegations are addressed promptly, fairly and transparently. Importantly, it reinforces the principles that abuse of power is incompatible with service leadership and professionalism, he noted clearly
The launch of the policies is organized by the office of the National Security in conjunction with the Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) and with support from the European Union.
DCAF country representatives Mark Lyrin spoke highly of the two policies being launched and hope it will be implemented for the good of the entire security fraternity and the country at large. EU rep Enya Brown also made similar sentiments.
The policies is aimed and designed specifically for the eight security institutions in the country namely, The Gambia Armed forces, The Gambia Police force, The Gambia Immigration Department , The Gambia Prison Department, The Gambia fire and rescue service, The State Intelligence Service, The National drug law enforcement agency and the Gambia Revenue Authority.
Deputy Director General of Immigration Hulay Jallow delivered the vote of thanks while appealing to her compatriots to make best use of the policies which she described as timely relevant in our quest to security sector reform.
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