The third edition of the Good Practice Review (GPR8) on Humanitarian Security Risk Management is now available, offering the most comprehensive update to one of the sector’s foundational texts.
First published in 2000 under the title Operational Security Management in Violent Environments, the GPR has long served as a key reference for humanitarian professionals navigating security risks in volatile settings. The 2025 edition reflects the evolution of the field and incorporates the latest thinking, research, and good practice. Published by the Humanitarian Practice Network (HPN) in collaboration with Humanitarian Outcomes, this new edition was developed with significant input from GISF and its global network of members, who contributed as authors, reviewers, and case study providers.
A major addition to this edition is the introduction of the person-centred approach—a framework that places the individual at the heart of security risk management (SRM), recognising that risks are experienced differently based on identity, power, and role. The review also shines a spotlight on national and local humanitarian actors, emphasising both their essential contributions and the disproportionate security risks they face. It includes practical guidance on strengthening national-international partnerships to share risk more equitably and safely.
New chapters address emerging and persistent challenges, including:
- Security aspects of access and deconfliction
- Digital threats such as surveillance, data theft, and the spread of mis-, dis-, and malinformation
- Organisational responsibilities related to governance, funding, and duty of care
- Staff care, medical needs, and internal communication
Unlike previous editions, which focused primarily on field-level operational measures, this edition broadens its lens to include systemic and structural enablers of good SRM. From senior management to human resources, logistics to programming, the review offers practical guidance tailored to a range of stakeholders involved in managing and supporting humanitarian operations.
The review was launched on 26 June through a live webinar featuring the editorial team and contributors, including GISF’s Senior Advisor, Shaun Bickley. The event explored some of the key changes in this edition and included two dynamic panel discussions on staff care and wellbeing; and on access, deconfliction, and combat-related threats.
The full GPR8 publication and an interactive microsite are now available on the HPN website: https://odihpn.org/publication/humanitarian-security-risk-management