Nearly one hundred security agents from Intercon Security, a service provider for the United Nations system in Togo, recently completed an intensive training session focused on combating sexual abuse and promoting disability inclusion. This initiative aims to align field security with the core ethical values of the institution.

Lomé, late June 2026 – Ensuring the physical security of diplomatic facilities is one thing; embodying the values of respect and human dignity they stand for is another. With this dual requirement in mind, the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Togo, in close collaboration with UNFPA-Togo, organised a large-scale training session on 25 and 27 June 2026 in Lomé.

A total of 95 agents from Intercon Security – the backbone of daily security for UN agencies in the country – received training based on international standards in human rights and professional ethics.

Guardians against misconduct: the stakes of PSEA

On the ground, security agents are far more than simple guards: they are the first point of contact for the public, partners, and vulnerable staff. In this context, given the potential risks, the United Nations enforces a zero-tolerance policy.

Thus, the core of the two-day intensive programme revolved around Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Over these two days, sessions alternated between analysis of practical cases and legal reminders to equip these professionals around four major pillars:

• Understanding fundamental rules: grasping the strict ethical framework of the United Nations that governs every interaction in the workplace.
• Adopting good practices: translating theoretical concepts into reflexes and irreproachable professional attitudes on a daily basis.
• Identifying prohibited behaviour: rigorously and unambiguously recognising weak signals and misconduct (harassment, abuse of power, discrimination).
• Mastering reporting channels: knowing and using internal mechanisms for reporting offences while guaranteeing anonymity and victim protection.

“Respect for the rights and dignity of everyone, especially the most vulnerable in the workplace, is not an option. It is everyone’s business, starting with those who protect our spaces.” — Orientation note from the organisers

Changing perspectives on disability

As part of this, agents were trained in protocols for welcoming and supporting people with disabilities with kindness, to ensure that United Nations premises remain universally accessible, inclusive, and protective spaces.

Ultimately, by investing in the training of its frontline service providers, the United Nations system in Togo sends a strong signal: security is not measured solely by the strength of infrastructure, but also by the integrity, professionalism, and inclusiveness of the women and men who embody it.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter