Since 2017 the UN has introduced several measures to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse, investigate perpetrators and better support victims. We welcome initiatives such as the mapping of services undertaken by the Victims’ Rights Advocate and supported by UK funding, but we have not seen much evidence of the impact these initiatives have had to improve the experience of aid beneficiaries on the ground. The UN Special Coordinator and Victims’ Rights Advocate have important roles to play in ensuring tangible improvement is achieved. To ensure sustained high- level leadership on preventing sexual exploitation and abuse, the role of the Special Coordinator should be a full-time position.