International Safeguarding
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International Safeguarding at the BBC
Safeguarding is central to how we operate globally. Whether you are planning a shoot, interviewing contributors, commissioning a fixer, or working in sensitive environments, the BBC has clear expectations to ensure children, vulnerable adults, contributors and staff are protected throughout the editorial process.
This page brings together the key roles, policies and resources available to support you when working internationally.
International Frameworks
The BBC strives to always work in ways which are culturally sensitive and respect the diverse nature of the people we work with. We recognise there are many ways of taking care of children and making sure they are protected. It is acknowledged that protecting children and being culturally sensitive can be a difficult balancing act, especially given the situation in many of the countries where we work.
International Safeguarding Policy
This policy must be applied in a way that ensures the BBC’s international activities do no harm.
All staff and representatives are responsible for considering the potential impact of their actions on contributors, communities and colleagues and ensuring that wellbeing and safety take precedence over editorial or operational needs .
The policy:
- Reflects cultural and regional differences in safeguarding practice.
- Sets out minimum BBC expectations, regardless of local norms.
- Provides guidance on consent, interviewing minors, filming in sensitive locations, and managing third party risks.
- Clarifies mandatory reporting routes if you witness or hear about harm, exploitation or abuse.
The policy applies to all staff, freelancers, fixers and contractors working on behalf of the BBC.
Training and Development
In addition to the mandatory 'Safety, Security and Safeguarding' online training module (available via My Development), the BBC Safeguarding Team deliver a suite of online international training and briefings, including:
- International Safeguarding Advanced (for News SPOCs - allocated by News Team)
- Joint Briefing with Ed Pol and High-Risk News Safety
- Bespoke Briefings per project (in consultation with the Safeguarding Team)
Additionally, Safeguarding Specialists are able to facilitate safeguarding compliance calls, provide ongoing advice and conduct assurance visits.
Contact the team to discuss your needs as soon as possible to avoid increasing risk to children and vulnerable adult contributors.
Reporting Considerations
Where reporting to authorities may place a survivor at risk, staff must use alternative, pre‑identified referral options such as NGOs, civil society groups, or community‑based services in line with BBC minimum standards. Decisions must prioritise survivor safety.
Reporting an International Safeguarding Concern
In an emergency: If you believe a person is in immediate danger or at risk of serious harm, call your country’s emergency number. Follow any instructions the call operator provides and if the emergency is related to BBC output, please contact your Line Manager once it is safe to do so. If the incident involves a child engaged by the BBC, please contact the BBC Safeguarding Team as soon as it is safe to do so.
Inbox: The BBC Safeguarding Team operate a shared inbox for general queries which is monitored between the hours of 0900-1700 (GMT) Monday to Friday: safeguarding@bbc.co.uk
Online Reporting: A secure online reporting system is available 24/7 to report a concern to the BBC Safeguarding Team. A Safeguarding Specialist (or their nominated internal specialist) will respond to your query within one working day via the system messaging function, email or telephone: Report here
If you are operating as a third party (Indie), you should follow your own safeguarding procedures; however, you must also report such concerns to your BBC Commissioning Editor/Point of Contact who will act as a conduit for escalation.
International Child Licensing Regulations
International child performance licensing regulations exist to safeguard children who take part in paid or professional activities such as filming, broadcasting, theatre, modelling and live events.
In practice, the regulations aim to:
- Protect welfare and wellbeing
- Set minimum safeguarding standards
- Limit working hours and conditions
- Protect education
- Prevent exploitation and abuse
- Clarify accountability across borders
- Support informed parental consent
You must plan licensing requirements into your risk assessment and ensure you have applied for the correct permit, by country.
