Introduction
10. WHO strives to ensure that all emergency responders can operate safely and securely in the interests of the affected population, in line with the United Nations Security Management System (SMS), safety procedures set by the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) and in accordance with WHO security policies, protocols and guidelines, through a Security Risk Management Process.
30. The WHO Health Emergency Programme's (WHE) Incident Management System (IMS) ensures that Security is integrated and engaged from the outset and throughout the emergency response process. The emergency response plans are to include, support and integrate all appropriate security measures and requirements to facilitate and enable the implementation and delivery of any emergency response under acceptable risks in accordance with UNSMS and WHO security policies, procedures and protocols.
50. Based on a security assessment for a particular response, recommended security resources (security personnel and equipment) are integrated into the WHO response plan. When required, dedicated WHO field security officers are deployed at the operational level to work closely with UNDSS, which provides leadership, coordination, critical advice and rapid decision-making capacity on security policy and operational issues through the security management team.
60. WHO Security Managers must ensure that the IMS is effectively integrated into the UNSMS in all areas of emergency response and operations, with prompt coordination at all levels as necessary, through the UN Designated Official for Security, the Security Management Team and UNDSS. The WHO Representative is ultimately accountable in country for staff security, safety, health and well-being.
70. The IMS, through the Incident Managers, ensures that all WHO personnel deployed for emergency response are familiar with, integrated and covered under the UN and WHO Security Framework of Accountability.
80. WHO requires that all personnel have appropriate and up-to-date security training, receive an area-specific security briefing before deployment and continue receiving relevant security briefings while in the field. WHO will monitor adherence to the implemented security risk management measures and take appropriate action against non-compliance.
Electronic Travel Advisory (eTA) Application
90. The
eTA is a mobile app that enables UN personnel to receive security communications and to access emergency contact information, travel advisories, security clearance status, locations of UN premises and more. Background information on the app can be found at:
Information Note: 19/2019 – The United Nations Security Management System Electronic Travel Advisory Application
