In Lomé, nearly a hundred Intercon Security agents—providers of United Nations security services—completed intensive training on combating sexual abuse and promoting disability inclusion. This initiative aligns field security operations with the ethical standards upheld by the global institution.
LOMÉ, June 29, 2026 — Ensuring the physical safety of diplomatic facilities is one responsibility; embodying the values of respect and human dignity they represent is another. With this dual mandate, the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Togo, in partnership with UNFPA-Togo, hosted a landmark training session on June 25 and 27, 2026.
Ninety-five agents from Intercon Security—tasked with safeguarding UN agencies across the country—underwent training in international human rights and professional ethics standards.
Security personnel as ethical sentinels: addressing PSEA challenges
On the ground, security agents serve as more than just guardians; they are the first point of contact for the public, partners, and vulnerable personnel. In this role, they face risks that demand a zero-tolerance approach to exploitation and abuse.
The two-day program zeroed in on the Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) framework and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention, blending practical case studies with legal frameworks to reinforce four core competencies:
- Mastering foundational principles: internalizing the UN’s stringent ethical code that governs every workplace interaction.
- Adopting best practices: translating theoretical principles into flawless daily professional conduct.
- Spotting prohibited behaviors: identifying subtle warning signs and red flags without ambiguity (harassment, abuse of power, discrimination).
- Navigating reporting channels: understanding internal mechanisms for reporting violations while ensuring victim anonymity and protection.
“Upholding the rights and dignity of all—especially the most vulnerable in our workplaces—is not optional. It is everyone’s responsibility, beginning with those entrusted with protecting our spaces.” — Training organizers’ guidance note
Championing disability inclusion in security protocols
The training also emphasized protocols for welcoming and supporting individuals with disabilities, ensuring UN premises remain universally accessible, inclusive, and protective environments. By prioritizing this education, the UN system in Togo underscores a critical message: security extends beyond physical infrastructure to the integrity, professionalism, and inclusivity of those who uphold it.
