1. Global strategies
  2. Protecting nongovernmental organisations engaged in hazardous duties

Protecting nongovernmental organisations engaged in hazardous duties

  • Protecting NGOs working in complex emergencies
  • Ensuring security of non governmental organization operations in conflict situations

Context

In an environment of increased exposure, deterioration in the rules of war and loss of perceived neutrality, the community of NGOs operating in complex emergencies is facing significantly increased risks to staff safety and security.

NGOs have become increasingly involved in political emergencies and war—the dominant feature of which is violent conflict. International NGOs and their donors have consistently prioritized work in conflict areas. Previously, most NGOs operated on the fringes of conflict leaving the ICRC to lead humanitarian operations in the heat of conflict. More recently however, as most conflicts have become de-linked from super-power rivalries, war zones have opened up to all manner of international humanitarian intervention. International and local NGOs have been a major part of such interventions—often as the organization of choice for western donors.

An NGO's exposure to security threats is directly related to its mandate and mission, mandate being the overall purpose of the organisation and mission its reason for operating in a particular situation. For example, an organisation whose mandate involves evangelism will obviously be at higher risk in some environments than a secular organisation. Similarly, human rights and 'solidarity' organisations may be at higher risk than service-providing organisations. An organisation whose mission in a given country is life-saving medical services must be prepared to withstand higher levels of risk than an organisation involved in economic development. It is important for NGO leadership to weigh their mandate and local mission as it relates to the local environment.

Implementation

The UN Safety Convention contains a fairly broad definition of crimes covered by the Convention. Crimes addressed include intentional commission of murder, kidnapping or other attack against covered personnel, as well as violent attacks on premise, accommodations and means of transportation, threats to commit such acts, attempts, and participation. States are committed to criminalize such acts under their national laws. A state party must take measures to establish its jurisdiction over the crimes when the crime is committed in its territory, ships or aircraft, when the offender is a national, or when the crime is committed against a national of the state. Most important, a state must establish its jurisdiction when the alleged offender is present in its territory if it does not extradite him to another state party having jurisdiction.

Claim

Protecting nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in hazardous duties is a critical issue that demands urgent attention. These brave entities often operate in conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas, risking lives to provide essential services. Yet, they face increasing threats, including violence, legal barriers, and funding cuts. Safeguarding their operations is not just a moral obligation; it is vital for global stability and humanitarian progress. We must prioritize their protection to ensure they can continue their invaluable work.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Counter-claim

While the safety of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) is often highlighted, the notion that protecting them from hazardous duties is a pressing issue is overstated. NGOs willingly engage in high-risk environments, often for noble causes. Their resilience and adaptability are commendable, and focusing on their protection detracts from addressing more critical global challenges, such as poverty and climate change. Instead of coddling these organizations, we should empower them to face risks head-on and innovate solutions.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

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Metadata

Database
Global strategies
Type
(E) Emanations of other strategies
Content quality
Presentable
 Presentable
Language
English
1A4N
J8261
DOCID
12082610
D7NID
199308
Last update
Jan 2, 2019