In Lomé, nearly one hundred agents from Intercon Security, a contractor for the United Nations system, underwent intensive training on combating sexual abuse and disability inclusion. This crucial initiative aims to align field security with the institution’s core ethical values.

Lomé, 29 June 2026 – Ensuring the physical security of diplomatic facilities is one thing; embodying the values of respect and human dignity they defend is another. With this dual requirement, the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Togo, in close collaboration with UNFPA-Togo, organised a large-scale training session on 25 and 27 June 2026 in Lomé.

In total, 95 agents from Intercon Security – the backbone of daily security for UN agencies in the country – received training on international standards of human rights and professional ethics.

Guarding against misconduct: the stakes of PSEA

On the ground, security agents are far more than simple guards: they are the first point of contact with the public, partners, and vulnerable personnel. In this context, given potential risks, the United Nations enforces a zero-tolerance policy.

Thus, the core programme of these two intensive days revolved around Protection against Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

During these two days, sessions alternated between case study analyses and legal reminders to equip these professionals around four major pillars:

• Understanding fundamental rules: grasping the strict ethical framework of the United Nations that governs every workplace interaction.
• Adopting good practices: translating theoretical concepts into reflexes and irreproachable professional attitudes on a daily basis.
• Identifying prohibited behaviours: rigorously and unambiguously recognising weak signals and misconduct (harassment, abuse of power, discrimination).
• Mastering reporting channels: knowing and using internal mechanisms for reporting violations, while guaranteeing anonymity and victim protection.

“Respect for the rights and dignity of all, especially the most vulnerable in the workplace, is not an option. It is everyone’s business, starting with those who protect our spaces.” – Organisers’ guidance note

Changing perspectives on disability

To this end, agents were sensitised to protocols for welcoming and supporting people with disabilities in a caring manner, ensuring that United Nations premises remain universally accessible, inclusive, and protective spaces.

Ultimately, by investing in the training of its frontline contractors, the United Nations system in Togo sends a strong signal. Security is measured not only by the solidity of infrastructure but also by the integrity, professionalism, and inclusiveness of the women and men who embody it.