OUR CHILD PROTECTION POLICY-2025
1. Introduction
Akdeniz Panorama Derneği is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all children and young people engaged in our programmes. We recognize our responsibility to safeguard children from all forms of violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination, and to ensure their rights are respected in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), EU safeguarding standards, and Turkish child protection legislation.
2. Policy Statement
The best interests of the child will always be prioritised.
We uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
We ensure protection without discrimination, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, language, disability, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status.
Children have the right to participate, be heard, and taken seriously in matters that affect them.
All staff and volunteers are trained and supported to understand safeguarding responsibilities.
3. Scope of Application
This policy applies to all programmes, workshops, trainings, cultural events, and international cooperation projects of Akdeniz Panorama Association, including but not limited to:
STEAM and robotics workshops for children and youth
Erasmus+ projects and international exchanges
Cultural, social, and environmental education programmes
Social inclusion activities for disadvantaged and disabled youth
Online and blended learning platforms managed by the association
* It covers all staff, trainers, volunteers, interns, consultants, and partners engaged with children.
4. Standards & Procedures
A. Recruitment & Training
Staff and volunteers must undergo background checks where legally possible.
Induction and annual refresher training on safeguarding are mandatory.
A supervision and accountability system supports safeguarding compliance.
B. Code of Conduct
All staff, trainers, and volunteers must:
+ Treat children with dignity and respect
+ Maintain professional boundaries at all times
+ Work transparently, following the “two-adult rule”
+ Obtain parental/guardian consent for photos, videos, or recordings
+ Report immediately any suspicion of abuse
Prohibited behaviours include:
X Physical punishment, threats, or aggressive behaviour
X Sexual or suggestive language or gestures
X Private or secret contact with children via personal phones/social media
X Sharing children’s personal data or images without written consent
C. Digital Safeguarding
Online activities are conducted only on secure platforms.
Children’s personal data must comply with GDPR and national laws.
At least two adults must moderate online sessions.
Parents/guardians are informed about all digital participation.
D. Reporting & Response
All concerns must be reported immediately to the Child Protection Officer (CPO).
Reports are treated confidentially and with urgency.
The association cooperates with child protection authorities and law enforcement.
Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action or referral to authorities.
5. Awareness & Commitment
This policy will be published on the association’s official website.
Parents/guardians will be informed of safeguarding practices.
The policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed.
A culture of openness, trust, and accountability is maintained to protect children’s welfare.
6. Designated Child Protection Officer (CPO)
Name: Uğur SIZIR
“I confirm that I have read, understood, and agree to comply with the Child Protection Policy of Akdeniz Panorama Derneği. I commit to safeguarding children from harm, upholding their rights, and ensuring their wellbeing in all aspects of my work.”
***Note: This policy is a mandatory guideline for all staff, volunteers, and partners of Akdeniz Panorama Derneği.
