International Humanistic Aid

Menu
Contact Us
Contact Us
Menu

Modern Slavery Policy

International Humanistic Aid (IHA)

Last updated: January 2026

International Humanistic Aid (IHA) is committed to preventing modern slavery, forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation in all aspects of our work. We respect human rights and dignity and expect the same standards from everyone we work with.

 

This policy reflects recognised international NGO standards and supports compliance with Australian modern slavery expectations and global best practice.

1. Purpose of This Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Set out IHA’s commitment to preventing modern slavery.
  • Identify responsibilities in reducing the risk of exploitation.
  • Promote ethical practices across operations and supply chains
  • Support transparency and accountability

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • IHA Board members, staff, and volunteers
  • Contractors, consultants, and suppliers
  • Partners and affiliates
  • All IHA programs, offices, and field operations

3. What is Modern Slavery

Modern slavery includes, but is not limited to:

  • Forced labour or bonded labour.
  • Human trafficking
  • Debt bondage
  • Child labour
  • Servitude
  • Forced marriage
  • Exploitative labour practices

4. Our Commitment

IHA commits to:

  • Zero tolerance for modern slavery and exploitation
  • Acting with integrity and respect for human rights
  • Taking reasonable steps to identify and address risks.
  • Working with partners and suppliers who share our values.
  • Responding promptly and appropriately to concerns

5. Risk Awareness in Humanitarian Contexts

IHA recognises that humanitarian and emergency settings may carry higher risks of exploitation.

We will, where reasonably possible:

  • Assess modern slavery risks in programs and supply chains.
  • Pay particular attention to vulnerable groups.
  • Design programs to avoid unintended harm.
  • Balance urgent humanitarian needs with ethical safeguards

6. Ethical Recruitment and Labour Practices

IHA expects that:

  • All work is voluntary and freely chosen.
  • No worker pays recruitment fees.
  • Wages and working conditions meet local laws or recognised standards.
  • Workers are treated with dignity and respect.

7. Procurement and Supply Chains

IHA will, where feasible:

  • Consider modern slavery risks in procurement decisions.
  • Engage suppliers committed to ethical labour practices.
  • Encourage transparency within supply chains.
  • Review relationships where serious risks are identified.

8. Reporting Concerns

Anyone may report concerns or suspected modern slavery linked to IHA activities through:

  • The Complaints Policy
  • The Whistle-blower Policy (for serious or confidential concerns)
  • Reports may be made anonymously and will be handled confidentially.

9. Protection from Retaliation

  • IHA does not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises concerns in good faith.
  • Any retaliation may result in disciplinary action, including termination of contracts or partnerships.

10. Response and Remediation

Where modern slavery risks or incidents are identified, IHA will:

  • Act promptly and responsibly
  • Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of affected people.
  • Work with partners to address and remediate harm.
  • Review systems to prevent recurrence.

11. Training and Awareness

IHA will seek to:

  • Promote awareness of modern slavery risks
  • Provide guidance to staff and partners where appropriate.
  • Build a culture of ethical and responsible practice.

12. Relationship with Other Policies

This policy should be read together with:

  • Safeguarding Policy
  • Code of Conduct
  • Whistle-blower Policy
  • Complaints Policy
  • Environmental Policy

13. Review of this Policy

This Modern Slavery Policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains effective and aligned with legal and humanitarian standards.

14. Contact Details

For questions or concerns about this policy, please contact:

Standing with humanity. Protecting dignity. Saving lives — without exploitation.