Addressing Security and Human Rights Challenges in Complex Environments

Companies can face difficulties in engaging with host governments when they are setting up or implementing their security arrangements. In many contexts, national and local-level authorities are not aligned, and this can add further complications.

This section helps navigate topics like:

• How to use company leverage to strengthen respect for human rights
• How to effectively engage with host government interlocutors
• How to address sensitive human rights issues constructively with the host government

In many contexts, companies need to work with public security forces in their area of operations. The presence of public security can lead to human rights risks for communities as well as security risks for the company.

This section helps navigate topics like:

• How to develop clear memoranda of understanding/agreements with public security
• How to vet public security forces in fragile contexts
• How to address gaps or weaknesses in training and equipment

Private security providers play an important role in protecting company personnel and assets, but their work is sensitive and can pose risks to human rights.

This section helps navigate topics like:

• How to vet private security providers including in the absence of public information
• How to prevent the excessive use of force
• How to ensure culturally appropriate security practices

Ineffective security management can undermine the rights and development of communities, jeopardizing the company’s social license to operate. Communities should therefore be systematically engaged on security issues relating to company operations.

This section helps navigate topics like:

• How to build trusted relationships with representatives of all members of the community, including women and indigenous peoples
• How to manage tensions and address social conflicts
• How to get senior company management buy-in for community engagement