Media CenterCRS Reacts to Oxfam UK Misconduct

Photo by Lane Hartill/CRS

You are here

We are aware of The Times’ investigation of Oxfam UK members and their conduct in the Haiti earthquake response.  First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of these atrocious acts. We unequivocally condemn any act that violates the rights and human dignity of individuals. 

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is committed to protecting the people we serve in the most vulnerable contexts around the world. We have rigorous systems in place to ensure our staff can report protection concerns, and those reports trigger prompt investigation and immediate action. This includes:

  • A whistleblower system that is available to all staff who receive training on how to use it.
  • A strict code of conduct and protection policy that places the highest priority on protecting the people we serve.
  • A protection training course that all CRS employees (and partners) must complete at the start of their employment with CRS.

These safeguards are in place not only for CRS but all of our partners and grantees around the world.

CRS staff hold themselves to the highest professional standards as we work in some of the most volatile situations. We are constantly revisiting and updating our policies and procedures and work to create a culture where staff feel comfortable raising concerns. Our hiring process includes thorough reference checks and to the extent possible, background checks.  Any violation of our policies or code of conduct results in immediate and appropriate action, including termination.

Kim Pozniak

Director of Communications

Kim Pozniak
February 15, 2018

Based in Baltimore, MD

As the Director of Communications, Kim oversees the communications and social media teams working with journalists and the media to connect them with engaging stories about relief and development programs that are making a tangible difference in people’s lives around the world.

Her previous work at CRS includes handling emergency...More