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Code ESNNA

Andean Pathways declares its unwavering commitment to protecting children and adolescents against Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents (ESNNA) in the context of travel and tourism, in accordance with Law N° 29408 (General Tourism Law), the Code of Children and Adolescents (Law N° 27337), and MINCETUR guidelines. This Code of Ethics is a fundamental document that governs the conduct of all our staff, guides, porters, and suppliers, ensuring a safe and abuse-free environment on all routes operated in Peru, including the Inca Trail and other treks. Its objective is zero tolerance for any manifestation of ESNNA and the obligation to report any suspicion or illicit act.

Core Content (Legal Clauses and Action Protocols)

1. Scope of Application and Legal Adherence

  • Scope of the Code: This Code of Conduct is mandatory and immediately applicable to all Andean Pathways personnel: management, administrative staff, tourist guides, cooks, drivers, and, crucially, all strategic suppliers and partners (hotels, ground transport, and trains).
  • Voluntary and Mandatory Adherence: The agency has formally adhered to the national initiative for protection against ESNNA, actively promoting the Peruvian government’s guidelines. Every new employee or supplier must sign a Commitment Agreement accepting knowledge and compliance with child protection regulations as an essential condition for their hiring or collaboration.
  • Sanctions Framework: Non-compliance with this Code, as well as any act of ESNNA, will be considered a very serious offense resulting in immediate termination of the labor or commercial contract, without prejudice to the criminal actions the agency initiates before the competent authorities, in accordance with Peruvian criminal legislation.

2. Principles of Conduct and Prevention (EEAT)

  • Principle of Dignity and Non-Discrimination: Our staff is committed to treating all children and adolescents with the utmost respect and dignity, refraining from exercising any form of discrimination, physical, or psychological violence, ensuring an environment of healthy coexistence.
  • Responsible Use of Image and Media: Andean Pathways staff and their suppliers are strictly prohibited from taking, requesting, or disseminating photographs, videos, or any digital material of minors in situations that could be considered inappropriate, expose their privacy, or could be used for exploitation purposes. Handling images of minors requires informed consent from parents/guardians.
  • Continuous Training and Awareness: Andean Pathways implements a mandatory annual training program on ESNNA prevention and recognition of risk indicators. Personnel are trained to identify suspicious situations and act under the established protocols.

3. Reporting and Response Protocol (Reliability and Authority)

  • Obligation to Report: Any person linked to Andean Pathways, or the Traveler who observes, suspects, or becomes aware of a case or attempt of ESNNA, has the legal and institutional obligation to report it immediately. Omission of reporting is sanctionable.
  • Internal Reporting Channels: A confidential internal channel [e.g., an email address or a telephone number] has been established for staff to report suspicions without fear of retaliation. Agency Management is responsible for receiving, documenting, and guaranteeing follow-up on every report.
  • Activation of Authorities: Once the report is received, Andean Pathways commits to immediately notifying the competent Peruvian authorities, including the National Police of Peru (PNP), the Public Ministry (Prosecutor’s Office), and/or the Ombudsman’s Office/DEMUNA, providing all collected information for the investigation and prosecution of the crime.