Founding members include Bank South Pacific, Steamships Trading Co., Santos Foundation, Business Coalition for Women, Femili PNG and G4S. Newly elected members include DT Global and TotalEnergies and an Honorary Member.
We thank the ongoing support of the key donor partners: Australian Government through the PNGAus Partnership, Santos, BSP Bank Ltd and Steamships Trading Co.
Santos Medical and Wellbeing team, including Santos Foundation staff at Moro during EVAW awareness onsite.
Santos and the Santos Foundation hosted activities to commemorate the day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW). Gender-based violence (GBV), especially violence directed at women is an issue in the communities in which Santos operates and EVAW day was an opportunity to address this, not just amongst staff, but also in the surrounding communities.
For Santos staff and contractors in the Kutubu and Gobe camps, merchandise including t-shirts and caps were procured for EVAW day activities create visible opportunities for conversation. The camps were also issued with safety toolbox topics for discussion and encouraged managers to discuss these talking points during the morning meetings. An EVAW walk was planned for Kutubu camps, however, due to security risks, this activity was cancelled. But this did not stop a team of staff who organised their own walk around camp to bring awareness on EVAW.
In Kerema town, Santos Foundation field team, in partnership with the Gulf EVAW Coordinating team planned the first ever EVAW walk in Kerema town on Friday 24th November. There were more than 500 participants, including the Provincial Administrator, Kerema Town Mayor, Provincial Community & Development Officer, FSV Officer, and Media personal from Gulf NBC. Message from the leaders emphasised the need to work together with partners such as the Santos Foundation to end violence against women and girls in Gulf province. Current rates of violence against women in the Gulf province are very high. The leaders made a commitment to support EVAW activities from 2024 onwards.
Santos Foundation, in partnership with the Pimaga Rural Health Hospital rolled out a week long awareness program in Pimaga, Southern Highlands province, in the lead up to EVAW day activities Awareness sessions were conducted at Orokana, Hegeso and Tirapu villages, including Tirapu Primary School, Kutubu Secondary school and Tanuga Primary school. The main event was on EVAW day on Saturday 25th November, with an awareness session at the main Pimaga market. During this time, merchandise was given out to participants, including t-shirts and caps provided by the Foundation.
The team in Tari, Hela province organised an EVAW day march with public service partners, including the Police, the Defence Force, the FSVU and family support centre (FSC). More than 200 participants joined the walk in calling on the public in Tari to end violence against women and girls in Hela province. The walk started from the main gate at the Hela Provincial hospital, around Tari airport and up to Pangale House grandstand.
Participants at the EVAW walk organized for Kerema town.
In a powerful stride towards creating safer communities, Westpac PNG has once again proudly joined hands with the Bel isi PNG to extend crucial support to those affected by family & sexual violence (FSV). The initiative, driven by Westpac's 'It Starts with Respect' program, underscores the bank's commitment to fostering safe and respectful workplaces.
With a holistic approach to eradicating domestic violence, Westpac's initiative involves policy creation, education, and awareness campaigns, addressing diversity and equity and setting clear expectations for conduct across the workplace. This comprehensive strategy ensures that the organization not only addresses issues within its walls, but also acts as a catalyst for positive change in the broader community.
Westpac PNG goes above and beyond by supporting safe houses through a unique partnership with Queenpads, a local social enterprise combating period poverty. Through a 'buy one give one' program, for every Queenpads product purchased for an employee, an equivalent quantity is donated to a safe house or an organization supporting survivors of FSV. This innovative approach not only tackles a pressing issue on period poverty and equity but also provides practical support for women in their daily lives.
As we celebrate the strides made by Westpac in creating a safer, more respectful environment, let us recognize the profound impact these initiatives have on the lives of those affected by FSV. Congratulations to Westpac for championing change and standing as a beacon of hope in the fight against FSV. Together, with partnerships like these, we move closer to a world free from the shackles of abuse and towards a future filled with respect, understanding, and support.
Westpac staff participating at the EVAW walk on Friday 24th November and staff with Queenpads products donated to the Bel isi PNG Case Managment Centre and Safe House
Swire Shipping & Pure Water were amongst the 80 BCFW member companies who attended the FSV Forum frontliners of the FSV referral pathway.
This year, BCFW successfully conducted six Family and Sexual Violence (FSV) Workplace Contact Team trainings, with Westpac, Buk bilong Pikinini, BSP Financial Group Limited, Steamships, Australia High Commission, and Exxon Mobil. The training sessions engaged a total of 58 FSV Workplace Contact Points comprising 41 female and 17 male staff.
“Dealing with FSV is sensitive both at home and in workplaces for employees. Companies having the FSV policy will benefit both employees and employers. I say this because I have noticed some of our female frontline workers (tellers) are afraid to come to work. After all, they had black eyes. With the knowledge and skills gained through this training, we can respond appropriately and sensitively to support our staff experiencing FSV at the workplace.” Male Participant Westpac.
“This was good sensitization training. My takeaway from this training is to be more patient and non-judgmental when supporting staff whether they identify as victims/survivors or perpetrators. I would also like to network better with the support teams internally to implement the FSV policy.” BSP Female participant.
Events and highlights:
• BCFW/IFC launched the report for the research Measuring the Business Case for Bel isi PNG in September. The full report can be accessed on the IFC website through this link: https://www.ifc.org/en/types/insights-reports/2023/family-sexual-violence-png
• BCFW hosted its annual FSV Forum on the 23rd of November at the University of Papua New Guinea at the New Lecture Theatre.
BCFW FSV Forum
The BCFW FSV Forum coincided with the 20 Days of Human Rights Activism, global campaign aimed at raising awareness and advocating against different forms of violence which women are subjected to.
The focus of the forum this year was about acknowledging the work of our frontline workers in the FSV referral pathway as well as to enable the businesses in the private sector to establish contacts with FSV service providers and build a rapport.
The program for the day included keynote speeches featuring the Chair of the GBV Parliamentary Committee and Governor for NCDC, Honorable Powes Parkop. He discussed the Special Parliamentary Committee's connection with the Family and Sexual Violence Referral Pathway, shedding light on its objectives. Following this, Ed Weggemans, the Managing Director of SP Brewery and PNGBCFW Board Representative, provided insights from the private sector.
Other guest speakers included the Family Support Center, offering an overview of medical support for survivors; the Public Prosecutor, Bel is PNG case management center (Femili PNG) on the role of courts.
Additional topics covered by various speakers encompassed effective case management, hotline support, recognition of human trafficking, and counseling services.
The program involved Q&A session from the private sector workplace contact teams. FSV Service Providers also held information booths where they could share insights about their organizations and the services they offer to survivors of FSV, providing participants with the opportunity to visit these booths.
Governor Powes Parkop, with Bel isi PNG Chair, Rupert Bray, Acting High Commissioner Dr Joanne Loundes and other participants walking along the Ring Road.
While the rest of the globe celebrates 16 days of Activism, PNG celebrates 20 days of activism. During the 20 days from the 20th November to the 10th December the country recognises and celebrates the recognition of basic human rights. The days commemorated during the 20 days of activism include the following:
• 20th November—Universal Children’s Day
• 25th November—International Day of the Elimination of Violence against Women (EVAW)
• 29th November—International Women’s Human Rights Defenders Day
• 01st December—World AIDS Day
• 3rd December—People Living with Disabilities Day
• 5th December—International Volunteer Day
• 9th December—Anti-Corruption Day
• 10th December—International Human Rights Day
As part of the 20 days of Activism, Bel isi PNG organises an annual walk commemorating the day for the elimination of violence against women (EVAW). This year, the EVAW walk was organised for the 24th November, while the actual EVAW day is on the 25th November. Around 500 people participated in the walk, which started at the Konedobu Oval and ended at the Harbourside West wharf.
The event started with a performance by the dance crew, Easthood dancers, followed by calls to action provided by special guests including the Governor for NCD and Chairman of the PNG Permanent Parliamentary Committee on GEWE, Hon. Powes Parkop, Acting High Commission for Australia to PNG Dr Joanne Loundes, CEO for Santos Foundation, Jodie Hatherly and Bel isi PNG Board Chair, Rupert Bray. Other leaders that joined the walk included Santos PNG Country Chair Leon Buskens, CEO for Nambawan Super Ltd, Paul Sayer and MD and Chairperson for ExxonMobilPNG Ms Tera Shandro
We would like to thank all our partners in making the walk happen and for providing support in the lead up and during the walk.
TotalEnergies staff at the launch of #BlackThursdays
Re-affirming our commitment to the Bel isi PNG initiative and the work that they do to realize gender equality in the country, TotalEnergies PNG launched #BlackThursday on August 10, by introducing “Thursdays in Black”, to stand in solidarity against all forms of violence.
TotalEnergies PNG places the safety and security of staff at the heart of its operations, to achieve a violence free and non-judgmental work environment. Which is why we have made a commitment to wear black every first Thursday of the month.
The design of the shirt/uniform itself encompasses aspects of both the Gulf and Central provinces, a reflection of the roots of the Papua LNG project. As you look at the shirt, the left side displays traditional Central artwork whilst the right side displays traditional Gulf artwork.
Bel isi PNG at Family Nature Day
Femili PNG on behalf of Bel isi attended TotalEnergies Family Nature Day to promote awareness to all staff and their family members and answer any questions. Their presence further solidifies TotalEnergies commitment against all forms of violence.
Bel isi PNG Case Management and Safe House Operator, Femili PNG setting up the information booth.
G4S Self Defense training
G4S ran a self-defence training to be aware and learn how to protect themselves from violence such as assault, family violence or other criminal acts and what you need to do to defend yourself if the need arises. Most people attempt to learn about self-defence techniques after they have been a victim. TotalEnergies had two people participated in the training (Ms. Joanna Paua & Mr. Salvator Camillo pictured with their certificates).
Westpac staff posing after the HR Roadshow
Westpac PNG is committed to supporting Gender-Based Violence initiatives which create a safer environment for our employees.
In 2022, the bank launched the "It starts with Respect" campaign, raising awareness and training 32 employees to become Workplace Anti-Sexual Harassment and Family/Sexual Violence contact persons.
Galkie Doaemo a participant from the Airways branch found the training to be informative.
“I found Bel Isi presentation to be incredibly informative and enlightening. It provides me with a comprehensive understanding of Bel Isi’s mission and how they can support employees dealing with FSV to rebuild their lives”
In 2023, Westpac PNG continued with the Speak Up week, emphasizing mental health awareness. In July, the Human Resources Team initiated the HR Roadshow, providing education across all Westpac branches in PNG. So far, 7 employees have sought case management and safe house assistance through our campaigns.
Santos Foundation Programme Manager - Gender, Toviraka Amona and Morobe FSVAC Coordinator, Thelma Hungito along with PNGDF Gender Committee Rep, Major Louisa Wanma.
The Power of Partnerships
The Chief of Defence Force Rugby Cup Tournament was an opportunity to elevate the profile of family and sexual violence within the Force, and build partnerships between the private sector, government institutions and the civil society organisations. Santos, through its subsidiary Markham Valley A/R (Afforestation/Reforestation) Project (formerly known as PNG Biomass Project), and the Santos Foundation worked closely with the PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) Gender Committee, the Morobe Family Sexual Violence Action Committee (FSVAC) and Femili PNG to bring awareness to troops, their families, and the public during the tournament in Lae.
Addressing the troops
The awareness at Igam Barracks on Saturday 15th July was led by Major Louisa Wanma, a member of the PNGDF Gender Committee. She introduced the awareness campaign and the theme “Happy Homes, Healthy Mindset, Mission Focused”. The session covered the following key elements with an introduction from Major Wanma and included discussions on the Family Protection Act, acts of domestic violence and forms of violence. The sessions were delivered by the Morobe FSVAC Coordinator Thelma Hungito and Tovi Amona Program Manager for Gender, who discussed positive ways of dealing with stress to minimise resorting to violence. Santos Foundation helped develop the awareness presentation pack for the PNGDF Gender Committee to use as part of its family & sexual violence (FSV) awareness throughout the different PNGDF locations, going forward - something the gender committee is quite thankful for.
The awareness campaign provided an avenue for the PNGDF Gender Committee to make their troops aware of the Committee’s objectives and inform the troops and their families of the support available to them.
Bel isi PNG
As Santos Foundation Program Manager for Gender, Tovi is also managies the Bel isi PNG program. While in Lae, on Saturday, Tovi was asked by Westpac to deliver a 30-minute presentation to their Lae staff on FSV and Bel isi PNG. As a Bel isi PNG subscribing company, this was an opportunity to also bring awareness to Westpac Lae staff on FSV and available support services in Lae. The presentation took 30 minutes, with 10 minutes Q&A.
Community engagement
The general awareness delivered on Sunday 16th July for the public attending the tournament. Children had separate sessions with discussions centred around their rights and responsibilities and a brief discussion on the Lukautim Pikinini Act. At the end of each session, questions were asked and children who gave the correct answers were awarded with a Santos rugby ball. Adults who were interested in learning more about FSV were given information brochures on the Family Protection Act, FSV and pamphlets on information for the FSVAC and Femili PNG. Over 200 people were reached throughout the 2 days awareness raising.
Visiting Markham Valley A/R Project staff
On Monday 17th July, the team travelled to the Markham Valley A/R Project in the Lae office and to one of the nursery locations. The aim of this session was to increase staff understanding of FSV and the support provided internally within Santos and also externally in the Morobe Province. There were more than 50 staff who attended both sessions.
It was an interesting weekend with different partners working together to bring awareness on family and sexual violence, especially the different forms of violence and the support available internally within organisations and externally with other partners.
This was a successful outcome thanks in part to the power of partnerships
Easy Skill employees standing together against all forms of violence
Easy Skill recognizes that its staff are the driving force behind its growth and success. The company firmly believes in the well-being of its employees, not only professionally but also in their personal lives. With an understanding of the profound impact that Family and Sexual Violence (FSV) can have on employees' health, mental well-being, and its potential negative implications for business, Easy Skill has taken proactive steps to address this issue.
In a remarkable move that underscores its commitment to employee welfare, Easy Skill has recently joined the Bel Isi PNG program. This initiative is aimed at providing support to employees who may be affected by FSV, ensuring their well-being is safeguarded.
Easy Skill's dedication to the Bel Isi PNG program reflects its core values and principles. The organization firmly believes that people make the difference, and this belief extends to prioritizing the health and well-being of employees and consultants, as well as their families. By taking a united stand against Domestic Violence and other forms of violence, Easy Skill is fostering a workplace culture where everyone feels valued, protected, and empowered.
As Easy Skill embarks on this journey with Bel Isi PNG, it does so with a sense of purpose. The organization understands that by supporting its employees through challenging times, it contributes to the creation of a stronger, healthier community.
Easy Skill is also proud to announce its commitment to developing a Workplace Policy on FSV, further reinforcing its determination to make a lasting impact.
Easy Skill is thrilled to be part of the Bel Isi PNG program and is eager to share the progress and success stories that will undoubtedly emerge as this journey continues. As the organization celebrates its achievements and looks ahead to an even more promising future, its commitment to its employees and the community remains unwavering. In closing, Easy Skill's dedication to employee well-being stands as an example of how organizations can make a real difference in the lives of their staff and the communities they serve. It is a commitment that not only reflects their values but also serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter and safer future.
For more information about Easy Skill and please visit this website: https://www.easy-skill.com
Supporting the implementation of the Family & Sexual Violence Policy through training is a critical component of creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, making workplaces safe and conducive, and ultimately working towards the prevention of such violence.
The two-day BCFW FSV Workplace Contact Team training is aimed at ensuring individuals and organizations have the knowledge and skills needed to implement the policy effectively and handle complex and sensitive issues with care, compassion, and effectiveness.
Recognizing the importance of having well-trained employees to support the implementation of their company FSV Policy, 13 employees of Steamships Group of Companies representing key business units across the company undertook the training. The participants were trained to serve as FSV Workplace Contact Team members where their primary role is to support, guide and resource other employees who may be experiencing or have concerns related to family and sexual violence. The Workplace Contact Team members are important in facilitating the much-needed support to their colleagues and in doing so, create a safer and supportive work environment.
The training was an eye-opener and inspired these participants to champion change within their different circles of influence.
“I will carry out awareness and educate my colleagues about the company FSV policy so that they know who and where to go, to seek assistance,” Female participant.
“My key takeaway was on Applying the survivor-centered approach whenever someone discloses and the most appropriate action to take to support them is to provide them information and refer them to support measures offered through our company policy or to those available in the community” (Gender) participant.
Another milestone achieved was the launching of the Bel isi PNG Endline report by BCFW and International Finance Corporation during this quarter. The full report can be found on the IFC website through this link https://www.ifc.org/en/types/insights-reports/2023/family-sexual-violence-png
Some of the Key findings from this research include:
• From 2020 to 2022, support measures such as employee counseling and alternative work arrangements helped participating companies reduce lost workdays by 1.4 days a year per employee.
• The latest findings also suggest a correlation between increased training opportunities for employees and lower acceptability of violence, particularly among men. It found that nearly 90 percent of male respondents said that family and sexual violence is never acceptable, indicating positive behavioral changes.
• The study shows that depression, anxiety, and feelings of shame are the most common impacts of family and sexual violence reported by women and men.
• Women reported experiencing physical injury at twice the rate of men, with two in five women who experienced family and sexual violence reporting that physical injury impacted their ability to reach and stay at work.
Recommendations for companies:
1. Make full use of Bel isi subscription.
2. Encourage staff to use available support for family and sexual violence;
3. Boost bullying, harassment, and online violence policies and practices;
4. Allocate human and financial resources to respond to FSV.
Recommendations for Bel Isi partners:
1. Improve information-sharing and communication between staff and contact teams;
2. Strengthen training and awareness;
3. Develop tailored approaches to accommodate service users' various needs;
4. Promote gender equality.
Members of the Santos management team who attended the 2023 Bel isi Leadership forum in Port Moresby on the 18 May 2023.
Santos has once again joined other private sector companies, businesses, civil society, and government to discuss family sexual violence (FSV) at the Bel isi PNG Leadership Forum 2023. Bel isi PNG is managed by the Santos Foundation (Foundation), in partnership with local organisations; Femili PNG and Business Coalition for Women.
Santos' management team’s participation at the forum this year signals the company’s commitment to the fight against DV and GBV in the workplace.
According to Santos Country Chair PNG, Leon Buskens, violence in any form should not be tolerated.
“At Santos, we have a domestic violence policy. Our medical and wellbeing team are our first line of contact for staff experiencing family violence” Mr Buskens said.
“We host events and learning sessions throughout the year aimed at raising awareness and imparting tools to address family violence.”
The forum, themed "Changing Attitudes: What is the Role of Men?" saw a panel discussion moderated by Melkie Anton, an outstanding male engagement consultant with extensive knowledge of engaging men and boys in addressing GBV.
The forum discussed including and engaging men more proactively in addressing workplace FSV, with awareness and education identified as being important. It was further discussed that having a circle of male leaders in organisations and various sectors in the country involved in such forums is a step in the right direction because men also need to be able to speak out and share their experiences, especially Papua New Guinean male leaders and those emerging.
Santos and the Foundation are also committed to addressing workplace FSV. Santos is already providing an internal referral mechanism for those experiencing FSV within its operations throughout PNG.
Ongoing Foundation-led sessions about domestic violence throughout Santos’ PNG operations were a way to encourage conversations and provide a space for staff to ask questions and seek support.
Focused group discussion led by Melkie Anton on male engagement was organised for Santos operations sites.
The PNG Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) invited Bel isi PNG to present at the Committee hearings on the 24th May at the State Function room at the Parliament Haus.
Program manager, Tovi Amona spoke about the private sector response to workplace FSV and how the Bel isi PNG program is working with subscribing companies to improve organisational response to staff experiencing FSV. She noted that there has been an increase in response to workplace FSV by the private sector due to the positive leadership culture and response from company leaders addressing the issue.
Recommendations to the Committee on how the PNG Government can improve FSV response included:
• Engaging and working with the private sector
• Resourcing the sector
• NCD to maintaining the Co-Chair role in the Bel isi PNG Steering Committee
• Investing in a national behaviour change program/campaign
• Resourcing the counselling sector
BSP in-person participants after one of the education sessions. BSP has undergone all 4x 1hr education sessions.
As part of the subscription to Bel isi PNG, companies have access to four 1hr education sessions. During this period, the Bel isi PNG team was able to conduct education sessions for BSP, the Australian High Commission and Total Energies. Over 200 staff from these subscribing companies have attended the sessions. Participants have noted an increased understanding on FSV and their own company response, as well as services offered through Bel isi PNG.
Santos staff and contractors after the DV awareness session onsite.
Santos is committed to ensuring that its workplaces are safe and enjoyable for all staff. In April, the second round of DV awareness sessions was conducted by the Santos Foundation Gender Team in Port Moresby, Kaitigi, Moro, Ridge and Gobe. Given the location of each site, the sessions included a video by the Santos PNG Country Chair Mr Leon Buskens.
Mr Buskens encouraged staff to look out for each other, but most importantly to use the services provided by the company if they experienced any form of violence. The sessions were interactive and included group discussions, as well as sharing of experiences. Staff and contractors were encouraged to understand the importance of having a company response to FSV and how they could manage stressful situations better in order to reduce the risk of violent behaviour.
A total of 170 staff and contractors attended these sessions.
As a community based organisation that works to help survivors of family and sexual violence (FSV), it is paramount that Femili PNG has its own policies in assisting its very employees, when they find themselves in abusive relationships. Femili PNG is proud to be operating the Bel isi case management centre in Port Moresby, working closely with various service providers and the Bel isi subscribing companies assisting employees and the public in general.
In 2016, Femili PNG documented and approved its own workplace policy on FSV. The policy guides the organisation on how to respond and support employees when experiencing violence. Femili PNG CEO Ms. Daisy Plana said that as per the policy, the organisation encourages its employees to speak up, seek support, and get appropriate intervention, especially when their lives are at risk.
“If a staff experiences violence, she or he is encouraged to seek support, register their case at the case management centre and the case goes through a normal process like any survivor who is assisted by Femili PNG,” says Ms. Plana.
Femili PNG endeavours to create a violence free workspace, including a zero tolerance policy on FSV emphasised through its annual policy staff orientation across the three case management centres in Lae, Goroka and Port Moresby. As a strategic way in educating staff on the policy, Femili PNG ensures that newly hired staff are well oriented and inducted during their first week of work.
Femili PNG’s FSV workplace policy has also helped employees. Ms. Plana said that violence occurs in different levels, regardless of education and status in life. Hence, services should be available to anyone experiencing FSV and seeking help. Therefore, she recommends companies developing their own policies to assist their employees. This policy will allow employees to have an avenue to speak and ask for support in confidence, having faith that their story will be dealt with confidentially.
When asked about what learning is there to share with others, Ms. Plana said, “We understand that making decisions to come forward and seek support when experiencing FSV takes time. We must respect the readiness of the person. Companies who implement an FSV policy will greatly assist employees to make informed decisions.”
In calling for action, Ms. Plana strongly believes that it will be good for organisations who have male employees to come up with a male support group to create an environment where male survivors would want to come forward to discuss their matters and challenges freely. She highly recommends that creation of male support groups will take the lead in the work of FSV in every business houses.
Our Case Work Manager for Bel isi Case Management, shares her experience of the recent Bel isi PNG Leadership Forum she attended.
“The Leadership Forum that we attended was one of the first official events for me to attend since coming into the role of casework manager. It was a very overwhelming experience for me to begin with.
There were so many discussions around the topic of “what role men play” and how these roles can promote gender empowerment and equity. It was interesting hearing from other organisations connected through Bel Isi on how they have certain programs, trainings and policies in place that created an environment for women to take the lead and prosper in these lead roles. It was more interesting because from Femili PNG we do promote gender equity however our staffing is female dominated already that it was nice hearing from other organisations, how they motivate and empower women to take lead roles.
The main agenda that really captured my interest was the challenge women face when been given the responsibility of managing or directing an organisation. Many women can be put in these lead roles, however how can the organization create the right environment for them to fully perform in these roles. As we all know, women have a much greater responsibility and expectation back in their family homes and it is not the same with men. In turn, this becomes a challenge of all women in lead roles, how are they to balance the expectations of work against the expectations of their household/family. This makes it harder for women to continue to want to stay in lead roles and that is a contributing factor to why women often cannot continue in this roles.
I believe that if an organisation can provide more enablers like proper healthcare insurance, transportation, and other childcare needs to not only support women but the family unit then we will be able to see more women coming out and wanting to be given the opportunity to stay in these lead roles.”
The Business Coalition for Women Family & Sexual Violence Workplace Contact Team (FSV WCT) training aims to equip key employees within an organization with the necessary knowledge and skills to recognize and appropriately respond and refer fellow employees affected by FSV.
The Coalition conducted two 2-day FSV WCT trainings for BSP Financial Group and Buk bilong Pikinini where 13 employees were trained and certified as their respective company’s FSV Contact Team members.
Successfully training these men and women reflects the Coalition’s unwavering commitment to address these critical issues, foster a culture of safety and respect, and empower positive change within each organization.
• The 2-Day training covered the following sessions for the workplace contact team.
• What is FSV and how does FSV affect the workplace;
• The workplace strategies or policy to address FSV;
• FSV service providers and referral pathways;
• Disclosures: How to have the conversation and;’
• General knowledge and skills to raise general awareness about FSV within the workplace.
“This was a good sensitization training. My takeaway from this training is to be more patient and non- judgmental when supporting staff whether they identify as victim/ survivor or perpetrators. I would also like to network better with the support teams internally to implement the FSV policy.”
BSP Female Participant
“I am now informed about processes involved and have gained some insights on the PNG Law around FSV. I look forward to implementing the FSV policy through ongoing communications.”
Buk bilong Pikinini Participant
Furthermore, the Bel Isi PNG end-line survey undertaken by BCFW and International Finance Corporation (IFC) aimed to identify whether there were benefits to employees and businesses when companies respond to family and sexual violence. It was completed in this quarter with key findings from the survey presented during the BEL Isi FSV Leadership forum on the 18th of May 2023.
Some of the key findings from the survey include:
a) Family and sexual violence impacts people of all genders at all levels of seniority.
b) Almost 1 in 4 (38%) female senior managers reported experiencing FSV more than 12 months ago.
c) Lifetime experience of violence at the endline decreased from 43% in 2020 to 38% in 2022.
d) Emotional and financial abuse remains the most common forms of violence.
e) Under-use of company measures 27% of women and 10% of men experiencing FSV reported accessing Bel Isi services during the past 12 months
f) The proportion of women and men who said family violence is never acceptable increased by 2 and 4 percentage points respectively at the endline.
g) 9 out of 10 men and women say that violence is never acceptable.
h) Better employee well being
i) The average number of lost days due to FSV decreased by 1.4 days per employee per year from almost 10 days when research began
j) Millions of kina in savings for businesses
k) Nearly 60% of women and over 80% of men nominated emergency care for children as one of the most useful supports a company can provide for its employees who are affected by FSV
l) Workplace bullying and harassment as well as online violence emerged as concerns for employees.
m) There is a link between a gender-balanced workforce and positive outcomes.
n) There was also a view among some managers, HR, and Contact Team staff that in instances where there are no disclosures of violence made to the company, no one needs support. This is not necessarily the case. Less than half of all women and men who experienced family and sexual violence spoke to a trained person in the workplace about the problem.
o) Family and sexual violence can affect anyone – regardless of income and educational background. People in all roles from frontline staff, to middle management and senior managers.
Overall, the proportion of women and men in the participating companies who said they had experienced family and sexual violence within their lifetime decreased from 43% in 2020 to 38% in 2022 after accessing the BEL Isi PNG subscription.
Some of the key recommendations from the survey presented to the companies were:
a) Utilize the Bel Isi Subscription - You have subscriptions – use them!
b) Strengthen training awareness-raising on FSV to all staff, including managers and senior leadership;
c) Improve information sharing on existing policies and support programs;
d) Promote Gender Equality and Strengthen diversity – a more equal workforce is correlated with less acceptance of violence, higher reporting, and fewer days lost;
e) Boost bullying, harassment, and online violence policies and practices and support for childcare;
f) Allocate adequate human and financial resources to respond to Family and Sexual Violence;
g) Encourage staff to use available support services.
In summary, training to address family and sexual violence plays a crucial role in raising awareness, preventing violence, supporting survivors, creating safe environments, fostering cultural change, promoting collaboration, and ensuring legal compliance. It empowers individuals and organizations to take a proactive stand against violence and contribute to a society free from abuse and exploitation.
Group CEO BSP Financial Limited and Co-Chair of the Bel isi PNG Steering Committee Mark T. Robinson giving the welcome address.
After several years of navigating COVID-19, the Bel isi PNG Steering Committee welcomed the opportunity to once again host subscribers, business leaders, partners and stakeholders in person through the Bel isi PNG Leadership Forum 2023, held in Port Moresby on 18 May.
“Changing Attitudes – what is the role of men?” was the topic for discussion, moderated by Melkie Anton, a leader in engaging men in the conversation around family and sexual violence. Melkie facilitated guests through a dynamic discussion exploring ways to better understand how men can be part of the solution to ending violence. The open, critical and, at times vulnerable discussion that took place reinforced the private sector's commitment to making a difference.
Addressing family and sexual violence is not only good for individuals, families and communities, it is also good for businesses. Global and local evidence shows that family and sexual violence imposes a significant cost to businesses. In 2015, the Overseas Development Institute conducted a study ‘Gender violence in PNG: Businesses lost 11 days due to FSV, costing one company K3 million in a single year. 1 In 2021, an IFC and Business Coalition for Women study found that workplaces that were actively addressing FSV reduced the numbers of days lost to FSV from 11 to 10.2
Bel isi PNG is positioned to help subscribing companies minimise costs to them and also better support their employees. It provides case management and safe house services to subscribing companies and also advocates for change in the area of family and sexual violence. The Bel isi PNG Leadership Forum is an opportunity in which stakeholders in the private and public sectors and civil society organisations can come together annually, to learn from each other and foster relationships.
“During my first week with BSP I chaired the Steering Committee meeting and learned about the incredible efforts by individuals and organisations in establishing Bel isi PNG. For some families in our community, their homes are where violence is perpetrated and as confronting as this is to all of us, not doing anything about it, is not an option. BSP is proud to be involved in Bel isi PNG and will continue to provide support to the programme as we believe it is the right thing to do.
The Leadership Forum gives us an opportunity to further demonstrate our commitment to the partnership between private sector, public sector and civil society. Since leadership in organisations largely sits with the men, I encourage the men to be leading change in their homes and communities to provide protection as there is no place for violence in our homes and communities.”
Mark T. Robinson, Group CEO BSP Financial Group Limited & Co-Chair of the Bel isi PNG Steering Committee
The Bel Isi PNG initiative is an innovative public private partnership between Papua New Guinean and international businesses, the National Capital District Commission and is supported by the Australian Government in partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea, Santos, Bank of South Pacific and Steamships Trading Co.
1Darko E, Smith W, 2015, ‘Gender violence in Papua New Guinea: The cost to business’ Overseas Development Institute.
2International Finance Corporation, 2021, ‘Workplace responses to Family and Sexual Violence in PNG; Building the business case, Washington DC
TotalEnergies PNG celebrated International Women’s Day with cupcakes and a fun activity. Acting Managing Director Mr. Sang Ratnam addressed staff of TotalEnergies PNG. In his remarks, Mr. Ratnam confirmed the company’s stance on equal representation by female position holders in various positions within the organization. Witnessing this event were senior management team members and Mr. Richard Kassman (center in a pink shirt) clearly demonstrating his stance in recognizing women folk as equal contributors in such an industry as Oil & Gas.
Balloons and cup cakes were the highlight of the event and an activity which saw female staff searching for a female colleague’s name on a balloon. This was a fun way to mix and mingle and with each other.
The Bel Isi PNG on ground support, online surveys, case studies reviews and feedback, team activities and professional training has increased knowledge and improved the ability to educate, bring awareness home and into the communities, assist the company to facilitate and provide supportive and helpful information to FSV enquiries, case management reports and referrals.
The Bel Isi PNG & FSV awareness programs has shifted perspectives from making decisions based on staff performance and attendance issues, punctuality, not paying attention to detail, loss of confidence at work, and low self-esteem to asking the question “Is everything okay at home?’’
The culture is non-judgemental in the workplace and the leading teams have settled in to understanding their roles, the journey of FSV survivor, and how far the help goes to save a life and or change for the better. The program has encouraged employees to come forward, open about violent outbursts, mind games, controlling attitudes, misunderstandings that influences violent behaviour, not speaking up, not being heard and to seek help.
Steamships employees have worked and are still working together maintaining and creating an environment that is inviting, judgement free, an atmosphere to be yourself because we do not know what our family in the office go through behind closed doors.
Steamships employees participate in the BEL Isi organised Ending Violence against Women (EVAW) Walk on Friday 25th November 2022 to show support for a great cause.
Steamships is strongly committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for all its employees. It is evident that employees face difficult situations in their work and personal lives, such as Family and Sexual Violence (FSV), including physical, verbal, financial and psychological abuse and other behaviours identified as a form of FSV. This affects their mental health, safety, attendance and performance at work.
The FSV Policy at Steamships has developed a supportive and non-judgemental workplace in which those experiencing forms of FSV feel safe to come forward and seek support. Family & Sexual Violence awareness has been mandated as a Human Resource Induction program and a refresher course delivered six monthly and annually by HR representatives and workplace contacts in all divisions of Steamships to both Citizen and Non-Citizen employees.
The FSV program has been developed, designed, and delivered at different levels of competency to allow employees identify how/where/when and why their role comes into play as a colleague, supervisor, manager, and a workplace contact. The FSV presentation outline include, but is not limited to;
• Introduction to Bel isi PNG
• What is FSV including signs of FSV and an abusive relationship
• My role as a colleague, supervisor, manager and workplace support
• How best Steamships can help staff
• Security and isolation of safe environment
• Confidentiality and disclosure
• Leave entitlement
These points guide workplace contacts, and Steamships responses to employees whose work life is affected by FSV, facilitating a safe workplace for all employees.
