PLAN
The PLAN stage incorporates the elements required to conduct a VPs-aligned security assessment.
Task 1 – Conduct stakeholder engagement
Understanding the external context and any potential security-related social and human rights impacts is strengthened through regular engagements with a range of stakeholders. Table 4E.2 provides an overview of key stakeholders and the objectives of engagement. Different functions may lead on engagement with certain stakeholders according to their areas of competence.
Section 3A provides guidance on stakeholder engagement. Discussions relating to security should be incorporated into the site’s stakeholder engagement plan (SEP).
TABLE 4E.2 Key stakeholders and engagement objectives
| Key stakeholder |
Engagement objectives |
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Local communities
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Security issues should be incorporated into sites’ stakeholder engagement processes with a view to communicating arrangements and identifying/mitigating impacts. Engagements should gather information about:
- levels of satisfaction / dissatisfaction with the site
- attitudes towards site security
- relationships with public security
- confidence in the public security / judicial system
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Public security provides
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Building solid relationships and understanding the capacities and attitudes of public security providers towards local communities are essential. The objectives of engagement include:
- communicating the site’s commitment to the VPs and national and international standards
- exploring issues of capacity, expertise and application of standards
- building a shared understanding of when and how public providers will intervene
- establishing regular lines of communication and sharing analysis as appropriate (i.e. without putting individuals or groups at risk)
- assessing capacity-building support
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Host-country government
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National governments are responsible for national security and the protection of human rights. They also have a strong interest in, and, in some contexts, responsibility for, protecting the site. Some countries also have Human Rights Commissions or equivalent bodies who should also be consulted. Discussions should include the need for proper investigation of allegations of abuse.
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and Human Rights Defenders
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Local and international are invaluable sources of information on security and human rights issues. In some cases, they can also be important interlocutors with local communities.
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Industry peers
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Other companies can provide valuable information on their experiences regarding security and human rights issues, as well as help identify and vet private security companies. Speaking with a collective voice can also be important in lobbying local, regional or national authorities.
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Home country embassy
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Home governments can be important sources of information on public security providers, a potential interlocutor with governments on sensitive issues and effective convenors of multi-stakeholder meetings.
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