Safeguarding and POSH for Program Extension Associates and Program Coordinators of Migration Program

Migrant workers are known to be a vulnerable community group susceptible to various kinds of discrimination, exploitation, and abuse in different forms. For this reason, a number of national legislative frameworks have been ratified to safeguard the rights and welfare of migrant workers. Women migrant workers face an additional threat of physical and sexual assault. To address this peculiar challenge and protect the rights of women migrant workers, various organisations and initiatives have been established in India. For example, the National Commission for Women provides support and legal aid to women who have been victims of sexual offences. The government has also established schemes and policies to support women migrant workers, such as the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979, which provides for the registration and welfare of migrant workers. However, more needs to be done to ensure that women migrant workers are protected from sexual offences and other forms of violence and exploitation. This includes strengthening legal protections, providing access to healthcare and counselling, and addressing the root causes of discrimination and inequality.

Caritas India organised a two-day training on safeguarding and POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act) for programme extension associates and program coordinators of partner organisations who work directly with migrant workers on the ground through the post-covid health insurance programme and the Pravasi Bandhu programme.
The two days programme was held on the 27th and 28th of February 2023 at the Navjeevan Renewal Centre in New Delhi. The training was attended by approximately 25 people. The training’s goal was to make participants more aware and sensitive to their well-being and protection. The training imparted a comprehensive understanding of various definitions and terminologies related to safeguarding and POSH, along with knowledge of day-to-day practical applications.

On the first day of the training, the emphasis was laid on developing a thorough grasp of safeguarding and protection modules. HR perspectives on safeguarding policies, such as safe hiring practices and building cultures, were also shared. The second day was dedicated to the POSH Act, including its background, goals, and key characteristics. It effectively emphasized the need for internal committees, employers, and employees in ensuring workplace safety.

The training gave participants a thorough understanding of the significance of safeguarding practices as well as how to identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns. Participants learnt about the various types of abuse, the signs and symptoms of abuse, and how to report safeguarding concerns. They have also gained insights into the legal and ethical frameworks that guide safeguarding practices and understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information. Furthermore, the training covered POSH principles as well as how to prevent and respond to workplace sexual harassment incidents. Participants learnt about the legal and ethical obligations of employers and employees in preventing sexual harassment, as well as how to create a safe and respectful working environment. The participants also shared various incidents with reference to protection issues and various risks such as issues concerning child labour and the right to education.

Overall, two-day training on safeguarding and POSH is a valuable investment for an organisation that supports and promotes the safety and well-being of its stakeholders and proactively works to prevent any harm. The training would help create a safer and more inclusive workplace for the community by giving participants the knowledge, abilities, and confidence to recognise and respond effectively to safeguarding concerns and incidences of sexual harassment.