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Security Risk Management (SRM) Strategy and Policy Development: A Cross-Functional Guide

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Published:
20 August 2024
Region:
Global
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Security Risk Management (SRM) Strategy and Policy Development: A Cross-Functional Guide

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 3: SRM Planning Template

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

Tool 10: Theory of Change template

Tool 11: Logframe Template

Tool 12: MEAL Planning Template

Related:

Burnout and Security Risk Management: creating more caring and inclusive workplaces

Pressure to get the job done and suppress emotions in the face of immense suffering can negatively impact aid workers' wellbeing and, consequently, their security. In this blog, Gemma Houldey explores the implications of burnout for security and how organisations can help staff feel safe to speak up.

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