To further its commitment to take action against improper sexual behaviour in our Armed Forces, the Department of Defense today unveiled two new policies as well as a new approach.
The new processes will expand on steps taken by the Ministry of Defence to address inappropriate sexual behaviour in the UK Armed Forces and enhance everyone’s experience, especially for women serving in the armed forces.
Along with the Zero Tolerance policy: Discharge for sexual offences and sexual instructor-trainee interactions that was revealed earlier this year, the policies and new strategy have been developed as part of the extensive programme of work that has been carried out across Defense.
Abusive, racist, or predatory behaviour has no place in our armed forces, and these measures convey a clear message that these kinds of behaviour won’t be accepted, according to Leo Docherty, Minister for Defence Personnel.
The Armed Forces, a forward-thinking and contemporary employer, is a place where our serving troops may thrive, and we will continue to demand the greatest standards and values from every single one of them.
The publications’ main specifics are as follows:
Zero Tolerance for Sexual Abuse and Exploitation: Sexual interaction that occurs when there is an imbalance of power is considered sexual exploitation and abuse.
This policy supports the Defense Department’s determination to strictly enforce laws against inappropriate sexual behaviour and outlaws any sexual activity that includes the abuse of authority, including purchasing sex while travelling.
The policy establishes a presumption of dismissal for anyone found to be engaging in the specified behaviours, such as purchasing sex when posted outside of the UK, and ensures that every accusation will be investigated regardless of where it occurs.
Combating Sexual Offending in the Defense Plan: In order to lessen the occurrence and effects of sexual offence in the Armed Forces, this policy gives victims top priority.
This will be accomplished by putting preventative measures into practise, such as training, awareness-raising, and a better knowledge of the most common sorts of offenders.
The incorporation of review recommendations into the Service justice System will encourage improved reporting, involvement, and successful prosecutions.
Survivors who are afraid of being believed will be reassured and encouraged to come forward and seek support.
Zero Tolerance for Unacceptable Sexual Behavior: An Approach That Puts the Focus on Victims and Survivors This follows the recently released Zero Tolerance to Sexual Offending and Sexual Relationships Between Instructors and Trainees policy, which imposed obligatory discharge for anyone convicted of a sexual offence.
It is applicable to all members of the UK Armed Forces.
With a presumption of discharge from the Armed Forces for anyone who behaved in a sexually inappropriate manner, this new policy places a stronger emphasis on the support for victims.
The defence department’s ability to deal with improper behaviour is strengthened by this policy, which also shows that helping those who have been the victims of unacceptable sexual behaviour is a key priority.
The Rt. Hon. Sarah Atherton MP’s recommendations in her report, “Protecting Those Who Protect Us: Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian Life,” have been significantly addressed by these additional actions.
In addition to these new publications, the Department of Defense has completed a significant amount of work as part of the Government’s response to Sarah Atherton’s inquiry.
This includes improvements to women’s uniforms and equipment, the transformation of the Service Complaints system, the establishment of the Defence Serious Crime Unit HQ, and the Servicewomen’s Health Improvement Sprint, all of which will guarantee that our Armed Forces live up to their promise of being a truly inclusive employer.