As Peace Corps volunteers, it is our duty to abide to the child protection code of conduct (page 20 in our volunteer service handbook). This policy states that volunteers will:

• Treat every child with respect and dignity.
• When possible, work in a visible space and avoid being alone with a child.
• Be accountable for maintaining appropriate responses to children’s behavior, even if a child behaves in a sexually inappropriate manner.
• Promptly report any concern or allegation of child abuse by an employee or Volunteer.

This policy also states that volunteers will not:

• Practice corporal punishment against, or physically assault, any child.
• Emotionally abuse a child.
• Develop a sexual or romantic relationship with a child.
• Touch, hold, kiss, or hug a child in an inappropriate or culturally insensitive way.
• Use language that is offensive, or abusive towards or around a child.
• Behave in a sexually provocative or threatening way in the presence of a child.

Peace Corps Ecuador has been made aware of a situation where a volunteer has made their students (minors) feel uncomfortable by the way this volunteer has touched them. In three months, nothing has been done to this volunteer's behaviors and actions. This volunteer should not be placed in a school setting.

This behavior goes against all of Peace Corps' beliefs, core values and expectations as volunteers. It goes directly against our mission of promoting world peace and friendship.

As Peace Corps volunteers, we sign this petition to stand in solidarity against any type of inappropriate behavior and/or abuse to any minor. We wish to hold this organization responsible to follow through and hold this volunteer accountable. We receive training for this type of behavior and are completing our duties by listening to every child and protecting them as needed. Every child has a voice and it is our responsibility as adults and volunteers to take these accusations seriously.