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Rwandan Safe Events

Security

Crowd management, venues and events security

Safety

Rwandan Safe Events Guidelines and Guide

Policies

Rwandan Safe Events Attendees Policies

Documentation

Documentation and resources for venues, festivals & event organisers

Certification

The Rwandan Safe Events Certification Levels

Training

Self, Online and Face-to-face training

Rwandan Safe Events

We’re turning festivals, nightclubs and concerts into amazing spaces for gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and positive masculinity!

Rwandan Safe Events helps venues and event organisers implement best practices: Safe Zone, Safe Space Policies, awareness-raising and training for staff and management to transform festive venues into places for education and GBV and harassment prevention.

We support artists in their engagement and role in the prevention of GBV and the promotion of positive masculinity.

Let’s transform nightclubs, vibrant venues and festivals into dynamic spaces for gender-based violence prevention, anti-harassment initiatives and the promotion of inclusivity, positive masculinity and key educational hubs on these crucial issues !

Rwandan Safe Events Campaigns

Rwandan Safe Events Campaigns

— Raising awareness and providing documentation and resources for venues, festivals and events organisers

— Helping Organisers & Venues owners and managers get started

Rwandan Safe Events Campaigns

— Preventing gender-based violence and harassment at and through festive venues, festivals and public events

GBV

— Supporting campaigns against gender-based violence and harassment

Artists as catalysts for change

— GBV | Artists as catalysts for change

By taking a leading role in prevention and awareness campaigns, artists can actively contribute to promoting positive masculinity and challenging the harmful norms that perpetuate GBV.

Events Organisers

We strongly encourage event organisers to adhere to these guidelines:

Creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment is fundamental to the success of any event.

As event organisers or managers of a club or party venue, our role in implementing the following policies is crucial to ensuring that our events are positive and rewarding experiences for everyone involved (attendees, artistes & performers, staff, volunteers, etc.).

By following the guidelines set out below, We, as event organizers, are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all:

— Zero Tolerance Policy

Every participant has the right to enjoy the event without encountering any of the above behaviors.

We are committed to maintaining an environment that is free from any form of violence, harassment, or discrimination.

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited at our events:

Physical, Sexual, or Emotional Violence:
Any act of violence, whether physical, sexual, or emotional, is absolutely unacceptable.

Harassment:
Unwelcome behavior, including verbal or non-verbal actions, that create a hostile, intimidating, or offensive environment for others.

Unwanted Physical Contact:
Any physical contact that is not consensual, such as touching, grabbing, or hugging without explicit permission.

Non-Consensual Sexual Attention, Touching, or Objectification:
Any form of sexual attention or behavior that is not mutually agreed upon, including unwanted advances, comments, or gestures.

Hatred and Hate Speech:
Any expression of hatred or incitement to violence based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, or any other identity is strictly forbidden.

Shaming:
Actions or comments intended to embarrass, degrade, or humiliate someone.

Bullying:
Repeated aggressive behavior intended to harm, intimidate, or dominate others, whether in person or online.

Intentional Intimidation, Stalking, or Unwanted Following:
Actions designed to instill fear, discomfort, or distress, including stalking or following someone without their consent.

— Promoting a Positive Environment

Inclusive Language and Behavior:
Encourage the use of language and behavior that is respectful and inclusive of all participants, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs.

Awareness and Sensitivity:
Be aware of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of participants, and be sensitive to how your actions and words may affect others.

Active Listening:
Foster an environment where all voices are heard and valued. Listen actively to participants' concerns and address them promptly and effectively.

Accessibility:
Ensure that the event is accessible to all, including those with disabilities or specific needs. This includes physical access, as well as communication and information accessibility.

— Responding to Incidents

Immediate Action:
If we witness or are made aware of any behavior that violates these guidelines, take immediate action to address the situation. This may include intervening, providing support to the affected person, and removing the perpetrator from the event if necessary.

Support for Affected Individuals:
Provide support to those who have experienced any form of harassment, violence, or discrimination. This includes offering a safe space, listening to their concerns, and connecting them with additional resources if needed.

Reporting and Accountability:
Encourage participants to report any incidents of inappropriate behavior. Ensure that all reports are taken seriously and addressed in a timely and confidential manner. Hold individuals accountable for their actions, in accordance with the Rwandan Safe Events policies.

— Encouraging Active Participation

We'd love to see everyone actively contributing to maintaining a secure atmosphere!

It is the responsibility of each of us to create an environment where all participants can engage fully, feel valued, and enjoy themselves without any concerns.

Attendees cooperation is essential in upholding the integrity of all events.

By working together, we can ensure that our events and gatherings remain inclusive environments where everyone feels comfortable and empowered to participate.

 

Don't be a bystander!

[+] Staff Training

Training staff in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) for event organizers and venue managers is crucial for creating safe and inclusive environments.

This training equips them with the skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to GBV effectively.

 

By understanding the signs of abuse and knowing how to handle situations sensitively, staff can better support victims and ensure that events are safe for everyone.

Additionally, trained personnel can foster a culture of respect and accountability, reducing the risk of GBV incidents and enhancing the overall safety and reputation of their venues.

[+] Certification

The Safe Events certification offers a structured approach to ensuring events and venues uphold high standards of safety and inclusivity.

Here’s a breakdown of the three certification levels:

1. Self-Verification:
This initial level allows event organisers or venue managers to assess and declare their adherence to RSE safety and inclusivity standards on their own.

— By completing a self-assessment checklist, they commit to following best practices and policies. This level is a good starting point for organizations looking to demonstrate their commitment but may not yet have the resources for formal certification.

2. Own Certification:
At this level, organisations take their self-assessment further by developing and implementing their own safety and inclusivity measures, which are then reviewed internally (after having been approved by RSE).

— This involves creating detailed protocols, training staff, and conducting regular evaluations. Own certification indicates a higher level of commitment and operationalization of safety practices, with a focus on self-regulation and internal consistency.

3. Third-Party Certification:
The most rigorous level involves an independent third party evaluating the organization’s safety and inclusivity practices.

An external auditor or certifying body reviews policies, practices, and training procedures to ensure they meet established standards. This level provides the highest assurance of compliance and is often recognized as the gold standard, offering credibility and trust to stakeholders and participants.

Each level builds upon the previous one, providing a clear path for organizations to enhance their safety measures and demonstrate their dedication to creating secure and welcoming environments for all.

 Safe Events Guidelines
 Safe Events Guidelines

Artists

If it would be beneficial for the cultural sector and entertainment industry to consider how they might contribute to addressing GBV, artists have also a unique opportunity to leverage their influence to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge rape culture, and combat harassment.

Artists and influencers have the potential to play an active role in inspiring transformative change within communities, and can have a positive impact.

By leveraging their social media platforms, they can amplify messages that challenge harmful norms, promote positive masculinity, and raise awareness about gender-based violence.

Their extensive reach and influence enable them to engage a wider audience, fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and non-violence.

One of the key objectives of Rwandan Safe Events is to facilitate the involvement of artists in the prevention of gender-based violence and the promotion of positive masculinity.

Through collaboration, resources, and platforms, we aspire to empower artists to utilise their creativity to challenge harmful norms, raise awareness, and inspire cultural shifts towards gender equality and non-violence.

— Join the movement !

Ensuring the safety and security of events is a collective responsibility. We invite everyone who values the well-being of our communities to participate in the launch of the Rwandan Safe Events platform and the development of the Event Safety Guide.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on how events are organised, creating safer environments for everyone.

Event Organisers and Venue Managers :

Your insight and experience are vital in shaping guidelines that make venues safe, inclusive, and well-prepared for any situation.

Artists :

As central figures in bringing people together, your voice can help champion a culture of safety and respect, ensuring every event you participate in is free from harassment and harm.

Institutions and NGOs :

You have been at the forefront of the fight against gender-based violence. We need your expertise and guidance to build robust policies and mechanisms that protect all event attendees. You are also welcome to assist us with the funding for this project.

Government Agencies :

Your role in policy enforcement is crucial. Together, we can strengthen existing regulations and ensure events across the country are compliant with the highest standards of safety and security.

Everyone :

Whether you’re an attendee, a performer, or an organiser, your voice matters. By participating, you are contributing to a movement that prioritises safety, inclusivity, and dignity for all.

This is your chance to join a powerful initiative that will shape the future of events in Rwanda. Let’s come together to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.

Join the Movement :

Please do not hesitate to contact us to offer your help or to help us fund this project.

— Latest publications

PANEL DISCUSSION: Exploring Cultural Norms and Impunity

PANEL DISCUSSION: Exploring Cultural Norms and Impunity

HOW ARTISTS CAN LEAD TO SOCIAL CHANGE 11 JAN | from 05 PM | INSTITUT FRANÇAIS Join us for an inspiring dialogue on the role of artists in promoting positive social change, both within the arts sector and beyond. UNMUTETRIPLE AARTISTS AGAINST ABUSE We’re back with...

PANEL DISCUSSION : ART AND ACCOUNTABILITY (GBV)

PANEL DISCUSSION : ART AND ACCOUNTABILITY (GBV)

HOW ARTISTS CAN LEAD TO SOCIAL CHANGE 07 DEC | from 05 PM | INSTITUT FRANÇAIS Join us for an inspiring dialogue on the role of artists in promoting positive social change, both within the arts sector and beyond. UNMUTETRIPLE AARTISTS AGAINST ABUSE Our goal is to...

UNMUTE — Triple A, Artists Against Abuse

UNMUTE — Triple A, Artists Against Abuse

— 5th October 2024 : Initiating a dialogue to address the silence surrounding rape and abuse within the art sector. Venue : Moshions | 2-5 pm An initiative designed to engage artists in fostering a movement that encourages cultural operators, institutions,...