Gender-based violence
We are particularly aware of the increased risk of gender-based violence among women who are forced to be at home with their abusers. This is especially dangerous given how disempowered abusers are likely feeling as a result of the social and economic fallout of the pandemic. We have therefore increased our anti-gender-based violence education and awareness campaigns, provided anonymous and non-company-related support to communities, ensured that help is available when staff reach out, and established stronger links with our community members.
We are also rolling out gender desks regionally through our sustainability teams. This, together with our whistle-blowing line, serves as an anonymous mechanism for staff to raise any gender-related issues, from unfair labour practices to sexual harassment and incidents of gender-based violence.