Aid worker stories
Day in the life: The humanitarian security coordinator
Aid worker security is one of the biggest challenges facing humanitarian organisations operating in some of the world’s most difficult and dangerous locations. As Security Coordinator for Islamic Relief Worldwide, RedR Member Tony Keating knows all about the risks aid workers face in their daily lives. Ensuring staff safety is his number one priority – and means vital aid can continue to reach those in need. RedR spoke to Tony from his home in Cambodia.
What’s a normal day on-the-job for a humanitarian security coordinator?
It’s very much about following the security issues which arise in the countries where we work. There’s a lot of liaison; trying to make sure everyone stays safe and that aid reaches the beneficiaries. That’s the core principle of security in humanitarian work.
Do security concerns often stop people from travelling into the field?
As the person responsible for their security, it’s very easy to say no – but it’s much more difficult to find a solution, and that is the challenge! My role is about being flexible and finding answers to security challenges, so that people can continue to receive humanitarian aid.
The most important thing is being sensitive to the needs of beneficiaries, and staff on the ground, who are watching humanitarian catastrophes unfold before their own eyes and desperately want to get out into communities and get on with their job. Let’s not forget the security of the beneficiaries, either. We always have to think about the impact our presence may have on their security; it’s not only humanitarian workers who are at risk.
What are the main security threats you face?
I’d say our biggest issue is communication. When people are operating in high risk areas, communications equipment – like telephones, radios, VHFs and transmitters – is vital. Even with the best technology available, when batteries go flat and circuit boards break, and you lose contact, it can create some very stressful scenarios.
For most Humanitarian Agencies, road accidents are amongst the biggest threat to staff in the field. Sometimes I wonder why people ask for a flak jacket when what they really need is a seatbelt. This is something that Islamic Relief has been working on for some time, along with other security incentives. Seeing staff taking on these smaller initiatives is an indication that they are taking responsibility for their personal security.
What is the impact on communities if you are forced to stop operations?
I am glad to say that hostilities have never closed our programmes while I have been with Islamic Relief. I have a great deal of faith in the common sense and judgement of people on the ground – not to mention their considerable experience and understanding of the complex environments in which they work. This makes my role much easier!
What makes you passionate about the job that you do?
I have met so many people whose hearts and minds are in the right place – they want to do so much for other people. If we keep these aid workers safe, they can do a huge amount of good and reach more people. That in itself is really quite satisfying.
How did RedR’s Recruitment Service help you find this role?
It has provided a great opportunity I wouldn’t normally have thought of. Sometimes you lose focus about your own experience and where it can be best used. RedR’s HR experts took an objective look at my CV and asked if I’d considered a job as a security coordinator. The rest is history!
Tony found his position with Islamic Relief Worldwide through RedR’s Recruitment Service. The service, unique in the aid sector, matches experienced relief workers and humanitarian experts with some of the most sought after jobs in international aid.
Photo Credit © RedR/Marja Scholten
