Child Protection Policy

Last Updated: 01 January, 2026

1. Policy Statement

Zoombangla Youth Foundation (Short: Zoom Bangladesh) is fully committed to ensuring the protection, safety, and well-being of all children engaged in or affected by its programs. The organization adopts a zero-tolerance approach toward all forms of child abuse, exploitation, neglect, and harm.

We recognize every child’s fundamental right to protection, as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and relevant national laws of Bangladesh.

2. Purpose

This policy aims to:

Safeguard children from all forms of abuse and exploitation
Establish clear standards of behavior for all representatives of Zoom Bangladesh
Ensure timely and appropriate response to child protection concerns
Promote a safe, respectful, and child-friendly environment
Strengthen accountability and organizational integrity

3. Scope of Application

This policy applies to all individuals associated with Zoom Bangladesh, including:

Employees (permanent, contractual, and temporary)
Volunteers and interns
Executive and advisory members
Consultants, partners, and service providers
Visitors, donors, and stakeholders interacting with children

4. Definition of a Child

A child is defined as any individual under the age of 18 years, in accordance with national legislation and international conventions.

5. Forms of Child Abuse

Zoom Bangladesh recognizes the following categories of abuse:

Physical Abuse: Intentional use of force causing harm or injury
Emotional/Psychological Abuse: Behavior that damages a child’s emotional development or self-worth
Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity involving a child, including exploitation
Neglect: Failure to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education
Exploitation: Use of children for labor, trafficking, or any personal or financial gain

6. Guiding Principles

Best Interest of the Child: All decisions prioritize the child’s welfare
Do No Harm: Activities must not expose children to risk
Non-Discrimination: Equal protection regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or background
Participation: Children’s voices are respected appropriately
Confidentiality: Sensitive information is handled securely

7. Code of Conduct

All personnel must adhere to the following standards:

Acceptable Behavior

Treat children with dignity, respect, and fairness
Maintain professional boundaries at all times
Ensure visibility and transparency in interactions with children
Use positive, non-violent communication and discipline
Obtain informed consent before engaging children in activities or media

Prohibited Behavior

Physical punishment or degrading treatment
Any form of sexual or inappropriate interaction with a child
Being alone with a child in isolated or unsupervised settings
Use of abusive, discriminatory, or inappropriate language
Sharing or publishing children’s personal data without authorization

8. Safe Recruitment & Selection

Zoom Bangladesh ensures that all individuals working with children:

Undergo a structured recruitment process
Provide valid identification and references
Are screened for past misconduct (where applicable)
Sign the Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct
Receive mandatory safeguarding orientation

9. Reporting & Incident Management

Reporting Mechanism

All concerns, suspicions, or disclosures must be reported immediately to the Child Protection Focal Person (CPFP)
Reports can be submitted verbally or in writing
Anonymous reporting may be allowed where appropriate

Response Procedure

Immediate steps will be taken to ensure the child’s safety
A confidential and impartial investigation will be conducted
Appropriate disciplinary or legal action will be taken
Cases may be referred to relevant authorities (e.g., social services, law enforcement)

10. Confidentiality & Data Protection

All child protection information will be treated with strict confidentiality
Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis
Records will be securely stored and protected

11. Training & Capacity Building

Zoom Bangladesh will:

Provide regular safeguarding training for staff and volunteers
Raise awareness among children about their rights and protection
Engage communities in child protection awareness initiatives

12. Risk Assessment & Mitigation

All programs and activities will undergo child safeguarding risk assessments
Preventive measures will be implemented to minimize risks
Continuous monitoring will ensure compliance

13. Use of Images, Media & Communication

Written consent must be obtained from guardians before capturing or using children’s images
Images must preserve dignity and avoid exploitation
No sensitive or identifiable personal information will be disclosed publicly

14. Breach of Policy

Violation of this policy will result in:

Disciplinary action (including termination)
Legal action where applicable
Permanent disqualification from working with Zoom Bangladesh

15. Policy Review & Compliance

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure relevance and effectiveness
All staff and stakeholders are required to comply fully