Understanding and managing risks

1Threat, vulnerability and risk

A threat is anything that can cause harm (crime, fighting, explosive devices, disease, road accidents). Vulnerability is what exposes us to that threat (predictable schedules, a valuable vehicle, lack of communications). Capacities are what reduce exposure or impact (training, procedures, network of contacts).

This is often summarised as: risk = threat × vulnerability ÷ capacities. We can rarely act on the threat; we act mainly on our own vulnerabilities and capacities.

Important reminder: in most contexts, road accidents and health problems kill or injure more humanitarian workers than attacks do.

2Acceptance, protection, deterrence

• Acceptance: being accepted by communities, authorities and armed groups thanks to the quality of assistance, respect for humanitarian principles (humanity, neutrality, impartiality, independence), communication and everyone's behaviour. This is the core strategy of NGOs.
• Protection: reducing vulnerability through physical means and procedures (walls, guards, curfews, convoys, protective vests).
• Deterrence: posing a counter-threat (armed escort, sanctions). NGOs use it only as a last resort, as it can compromise neutrality and acceptance.

Most organisations combine all three, with a strong emphasis on acceptance.

3Security plan and procedures

Each area of operation has an up-to-date security plan: context and risk analysis, standard operating procedures (SOPs), contacts, medical and evacuation plans. Read it on arrival and sign it.

• Alert levels: each level indicates what is permitted (movements, times, areas).
• Hibernation: sheltering in place (office or residence) with reserves of water, food, fuel and communications for several days.
• Relocation: temporarily moving staff to a safer area within the country.
• Evacuation: moving staff out of the country. Keep a grab bag ready (documents, cash, medicines, charger).

4Movements and communications

• Every movement is authorised and tracked: route, times, passengers, radio or phone check-ins at set intervals.
• Avoid routine (vary times and routes), do not drive at night unless the rules say otherwise, seat belts fastened for everyone, limited speed.
• Vehicle in good condition, full tank, first aid kit, spare wheel, contact list.
• Redundant means of communication (phone, HF/VHF radio, satellite phone) and known radio call signs.
• Seek information from NGO security forums (for example INSO where it is present) and local colleagues, who know the context best.