Supporting the safety and security of humanitarian non-governmental organizations — INSO 2022

June 2022 — The changing nature of conflicts worldwide has resulted in unprecedented humanitarian needs. This poses unique safety and security challenges for humanitarian organizations delivering assistance to vulnerable populations despite the protections of international humanitarian law. Conflicts worldwide result in countless and often deliberate attacks on medical and humanitarian personnel. More than ever before frontline humanitarian workers and non-governmental organizations require free and up-to-date information analysis and advice. This supports informed decision-making enables humanitarian access and helps them serve populations most in need. With GAC’s support INSO helps humanitarian organizations fulfill their mandates safely by providing timely information and assistance to reduce security risks. Project activities include: (1) submitting daily reports—including incident reports— analytical reports and thematic reports; (2) facilitating coordination meetings on access safety and security amongst humanitarian organizations; (3) giving expert advice on risk mitigation at all stages of clients’ program cycle; and (4) providing capacity-building and crisis response to humanitarian organizations. This includes reviewing partners’ security plans and policies and delivering free training courses in security management and conflict analysis.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) improved access by non-governmental humanitarian organizations to timely reliable and high-quality security-related information—in the countries INSO works; (2) improved planning and safer delivery of aid; (3) improved protection of relief personnel and greater effectiveness of humanitarian action; and (4) ensured safer access to assistance by communities affected by humanitarian crisis. The ultimate outcome for this project is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in countries experiencing humanitarian crises or acute food insecurity.