Having a robust security risk management (SRM) strategy and policy is critical for any NGO to achieve its mission. But for too many organisations, these don’t exist. Even when they are in place, strategies are often siloed within a single department. And policies may receive limited engagement from senior leaders.
This guide, developed by the Global Interagency Security Forum (GISF) and International Location Safety (ILS) is designed to help NGOs approach SRM at a strategic, policy development and organisational level. This publication was produced as part of a three-year cooperative agreement funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through ChildFund International.
The guide was developed from 19 key informant interviews. Participants included senior-level security managers from national and international humanitarian NGOs, key experts with experience in SRM in the humanitarian sector, and corporate and donor representatives. Five facilitated group workshops with senior-level security managers and two online surveys were also conducted. And, an in-depth literature review complemented this information with a final peer-led review of the resource.
The guide is targeted at staff with direct responsibility for developing and implementing their organisational SRM strategy and policy. But it is also a critical resource for senior leaders.
Alongside the guide, there is also a set of 12 tools. These include various templates to help senior leaders draft risk attitude statements, a theory of change, and much more. Editable versions of the 12 tools are also included below.
If you have any feedback or questions, please email the GISF team at research@gisf.ngo.
SRM Strategy and Policy Toolkit
Tool 1: Developing your Strategic Directions – Example
Tool 2: How to rationalise your SRM strategy
Tool 4: SWOT Analysis Template
Tool 5: Example Risk Attitude Statements
Tool 6: Establishing Organisational Approach to Risk
Tool 7: Example Terms of Reference for Risk Management Committee
Tool 8: Learning and Development Plan Template
Tool 9: Strategic Thinking Matrix Example