As my first point, I would like to acknowledge the vital contribution international disaster assistance that the U.S. Military provides at crucial times of urgent need…” One of the most crucial components of NGO staff security in the field is the acceptance by local committee’s of our presence.” We cultivate this acceptance by valuing cultural sensitivity, understanding local customs, demonstrating commitment in a community or refugee camp…”
Military troops can compromise the security of NGO staff by blurring the lines between military and civilian humanitarian personnel. If we work too close to the military, NGO’s become vulnerable to accusations that we are agents of the Pentagon or spies rather than operationally independent humanitarian workers.”