10 The UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) provides safety and security services to UN agencies as part of the UNSMS.
20 While UNDSS serves as security adviser to the UN System in all locations worldwide, the scope of WHO activities in the field and its distinctive operational requirements necessitate agency-specific security support. In these cases, the HWO may require the assistance of WHO Field Security Officers (FSOs). As security professionals, FSOs have similar qualifications to UNDSS personnel, but develop specific expertise in WHO operations.
30 The primary responsibility of the FSO is to provide technical advice to management on matters pertaining to security of personnel, assets, and operations; and to act as the focal point in security-related tasks and processes.
40 The FSO maintains an information network to support a robust security management process with the goal of ensuring the security of personnel while enabling operations under acceptable risks.
50 The FSO plays an important role in enhancing personnel security awareness, emphasizing their capacity and responsibility in their own safety and security as well as that of their colleagues.
60 The FSO in the field is directly supervised by his/her HWO. The Director SEC and the Regional FSOs, provide technical guidance and advice as requested or as necessary to support decision making on security matters in the field. The FSO in the field must have direct and unmediated access to the HWO. While his or her advice should always be given due consideration, the authority as regards decision making rests with the line management.
70 In offices where no FSO is present, the HWO should appoint a security focal point who would normally be the Administrative/Operations Officer. The security focal point assumes, within the limitations of professional expertise, many of the functions of the FSO. At a minimum, he/she is the action officer in realizing any security-related projects and should participate in any technical-level security working groups on behalf of WHO.
