Archive:
Abduction of aid workers has risen sharply in particular contexts in the past decade. Abduction is a “unique form of critical incident”, characterised by its ongoing, “live” nature, often extended duration, the pressure of decision-making and uncertainty. Though the essential…
No matter how good the risk management system, aid workers operate in areas where risk of critical incidents cannot be eliminated. And thus agencies must form and constantly seek to update and strengthen robust crisis response mechanisms, from incident reporting processes through…
Shaun Bickley through Safety First (2010) provides useful reminders and easy-reference chapters to be consulted as safety and security issues arise. Not only is this book essential reading for staff about to take up their first field positions, it should…
This report provides an index of various initiatives related to safety and security of aid agencies and their staff. The purpose of this report is to inform readers of the projects themselves, who is responsible for or participating in each…
In light of the attacks against the United Nations in both Peshawar and Kabul in autumn 2009, the UN has decided to “harden” itself as a target, using a protection-based strategy to reduce the vulnerability of its staff. But to…
Remote Programming Modalities in Somalia. Discussion Paper Drafted by Oxfam International and Merlin for NGO Consortium (January 2009).
In July 2008, Michael Braun, assistant administrator and chief of operations at the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), addressed a special policy forum at The Washington Institute. He spoke about the nexus between drugs and Middle East terrorist groups and the growing challenge…
This report by Paul McPhun and Elena Lucchi (2008) states that “there is now a growing international awareness that urbanization is becoming untenable, representing in some contexts a crisis that far outweighs the impact of ongoing conflict in remaining regions…
Through her article called “Regional shortcomings and global solutions: Kidnap, ransom and insurance in Latin America” (2008), Samantha Kenney explores the problematic links between insurance companies and the fact that the relatives of a kidnapped person can pay the ransom…
“Focus on Operationality” Briefing Papers (2007) are meant for humanitarian organisations inside Iraq, supporting agencies, policymakers and donors. They provide information on current operational and policy challenges, as well as lessons learned and best practices drawn from recent field experience.…