Key conceptsHuman rights officers should:
• before entering a new area, consult the operation's central office security officer about
• consult others in the locality about risks and how to avoid them; • place UN markings on their vehicles; • carry UN identification cards (with blood type, medical information); • wear UN markings on their clothing, e.g., hat, arm-band, shirt; • be trained to use radio communications or mobile telephones; • carefully select their office and place of residence; • contact neighbours when they first arrive; • notify the security officer of the location of office and residence; • protect documents, records and computerized information; • use locks on external and some internal doors of offices and residences; • keep a week's stock of water and food;l in dealing with road-blocks explain the operation's mandate or produce other
authorizing documentation, but use good judgement in the circumstances;l learn about the type and location of mines;
• know basic vehicle maintenance: check the oil, fuel, water, tyres, spares; • know how to drive carefully under local conditions; • avoid clothing, photos, or other ways of offending local sensitivities; • follow any travel restrictions; • always make sure that colleagues know their location in the field; • know what to do and where to go in an emergency or evacuation; • have received vaccinations; anticipate medical needs; know of medical facilities
available; know about water and food cleanliness; know how to recognize symptoms
of serious illnesses; and avoid unnecessary health risks, including sexually
• keep informed of security guidelines and security situation; and • exercise good judgement and be careful.
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Publication information: Book title: Training Manual on Human Rights Monitoring. Contributors: Office Of The High Commissioner For Human Rights - OrganizationName. Publisher: United Nations. Place of publication: New York. Publication year: 2001. Page number: 469.
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