The Business and Security series provides a focus on contemporary security governance challenges and examines ways in which greater cooperation between states, international organisations, civil society and the private sector can help to address them. The series promotes policy relevant research as part of the mandate of DCAF’s Business and Security Division to support innovative partnerships that bring stakeholders together to realise shared security and development goals. Other publications and tools that fall into the thematic of security sector governance are also inlcuded in this section. All publications are freely accessible and available to download from this website.
PUBLICATIONS
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20.05.2016PUTTING PRIVATE SECURITY REGULATION INTO PRACTICE: SHARING GOOD PRACTICES ON PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACTING 2015–2016
This study highlights good practices and clarifies the landscape of existing procurement and contracting systems in international organisations and states. The study: 1) summarises relevant existing instruments related to human rights-based procurement of private security companies; 2) outlines the essential stages of a procurement process, and; 3) shares good practices from selected case studies. Through this, the study aims to support the development and implementation of procurement and contracting policies based on international human rights... Read more
This study highlights good practices and clarifies the landscape of existing procurement and contracting systems in international organisations and states. The study: 1) summarises relevant existing instruments related to human rights-based procurement of private security companies; 2) outlines the essential stages of a procurement process, and; 3) shares good practices from selected case studies. Through this, the study aims to support the development and implementation of procurement and contracting policies based on international human rights standards.
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23.08.2019THE PRIVATIZATION OF SECURITY AND THE MARKET FOR CYBER TOOLS AND SERVICES
This paper seeks to identify the emerging and expanding gaps in the governance of private cybersecurity companies and activities and to explore ways forward and policy options for governments. First, it explores the characteristics of typical cyber operations and challenges related to their conduct by private actors. Thereafter, it addresses the governance challenges around cybersecurity and three main departure points for regulation: the fact that geographic scope does not limit cybersecurity companies, that cyber operations can slide from defensive to offensive very quickly; and that... Read more
This paper seeks to identify the emerging and expanding gaps in the governance of private cybersecurity companies and activities and to explore ways forward and policy options for governments. First, it explores the characteristics of typical cyber operations and challenges related to their conduct by private actors. Thereafter, it addresses the governance challenges around cybersecurity and three main departure points for regulation: the fact that geographic scope does not limit cybersecurity companies, that cyber operations can slide from defensive to offensive very quickly; and that cybersecurity services are often exported for the purpose of (or with the knowledge they will be) violating human rights. This section will also integrate perspectives of international law. Finally, the paper lays out suggestions for policy options in relation to international law and existing international normative frameworks. In conclusion, the paper offers a framework and way forward as food for thought in order to address cybersecurity operations in relation to PMSCs.
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27.04.2016THE MONTREUX DOCUMENT AND THE INTERNATIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT: Understanding the relationship between international initiatives to regulate the global private security industry
This paper provides a detailed comparison between good practices contained in the Montreux Document and the ICoC principles. In particular, it examines to what extent states may build on the ICoC and its Association in order to regulate the provision of private security services effectively and thereby implement good practices identified in the Montreux Document. The paper recommends that states include ICoCA membership in their national authorisation or hiring processes. The principles of the ICoC and the governance mechanism... Read more
This paper provides a detailed comparison between good practices contained in the Montreux Document and the ICoC principles. In particular, it examines to what extent states may build on the ICoC and its Association in order to regulate the provision of private security services effectively and thereby implement good practices identified in the Montreux Document. The paper recommends that states include ICoCA membership in their national authorisation or hiring processes. The principles of the ICoC and the governance mechanism established by the ICoCA can complement or even be an essential component of a state’s effort to regulate PSCs in accordance with Montreux Document good practices.
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02.07.2018Supporting Enhanced Dialogue on Private Military and Security Companies (PMSCs)
Supporting Enhanced Dialogue on Private Military and Security Companies (PMSCs) Analysis of information provided to the Annual OSCE Information Exchange
Since the 2009 proposed expansion of the questionnaire, no qualitative analysis of pS reporting on PMSCs has been carried out. A thorough analysis of the information provided by pS could be useful to other OSCE pS in the development of their own regulations and oversight of PMSCs. Furthermore, no research has been conducted on possible gaps in oversight and regulation of the private security... Read more
Supporting Enhanced Dialogue on Private Military and Security Companies (PMSCs) Analysis of information provided to the Annual OSCE Information Exchange
Since the 2009 proposed expansion of the questionnaire, no qualitative analysis of pS reporting on PMSCs has been carried out. A thorough analysis of the information provided by pS could be useful to other OSCE pS in the development of their own regulations and oversight of PMSCs. Furthermore, no research has been conducted on possible gaps in oversight and regulation of the private security industry across the OSCE regions. In consideration of this, the Conflict Prevention Centre has tasked the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) to carry out an analysis of pS’ responses to the voluntary reporting on PMSCs.
The analysis focuses on OSCE's efforts in the regulation and oversight of PMSCs and identifies additional avenues to support States’ reporting. The paper also aims at filling the research gap in understanding OSCE pS’ experiences and how they have engaged with the reporting on PMSCs in the Information Exchange. It also gives an insight on how OSCE institutions and international regulatory initiatives can support OSCE participating States as they seek to overcome challenges in the regulation of PMSCs.
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24.08.2017Whose Responsibility?
Private security companies (PSCs) can help to enhance security but may also contribute to more insecurity. Their activities can also have positive or negative effects on individuals’ human rights. But when and how should one hold PSCs accountable for the impacts they generate? And what are the responsibilities of states that privatise security? Who will control that this privatisation does not happen to the detriment of the wider public? Whose Responsibility? Is a collection of papers presented and discussed at a meeting of Southeast European private security experts... Read more
Private security companies (PSCs) can help to enhance security but may also contribute to more insecurity. Their activities can also have positive or negative effects on individuals’ human rights. But when and how should one hold PSCs accountable for the impacts they generate? And what are the responsibilities of states that privatise security? Who will control that this privatisation does not happen to the detriment of the wider public? Whose Responsibility? Is a collection of papers presented and discussed at a meeting of Southeast European private security experts in December 2016 and answers many of the questions surrounding responsibility and accountability in the private security sector.
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28.01.2016A FORCE FOR GOOD? Mapping the private security landscape in Southeast Europe
This research publication looks at the private security sector in Bulgaria and three Balkan states (Albania, Kosovo, and Serbia). More specifically, it explores the size, role and impact of the sector within each nation and considers among others the following questions. 1) Do national authorities have a clear picture of all the actors playing a security role on their territory? 2) How do private security providers affect individuals or communities on a day to day basis? And 3) is there a clear delineation of roles and responsibilities between public and private... Read more
This research publication looks at the private security sector in Bulgaria and three Balkan states (Albania, Kosovo, and Serbia). More specifically, it explores the size, role and impact of the sector within each nation and considers among others the following questions. 1) Do national authorities have a clear picture of all the actors playing a security role on their territory? 2) How do private security providers affect individuals or communities on a day to day basis? And 3) is there a clear delineation of roles and responsibilities between public and private security actors?
Chapters from this publication are also available in the following languages: Albanian, Bulgarian, and Serbian.
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20.03.2020Introduction to Cybersecurity Governance - A Tool for Members of Parliament
This introduction, a Tool for members of parliament, explains the main elements of cybersecurity and its governance: cybercrime, cyberwar, cyberterrorism, cyberespionage and hacktivism and the challenges and opportunities in governing them. Each section is complemented with a list of possible questions that members of parliament can raise in relation to the issue. The questions aim to increase government accountability and that of other key cybersecurity stakeholders. They can be included in questions to the government, discussed in public hearings or inspire parliamentary inquires.
Read more This introduction, a Tool for members of parliament, explains the main elements of cybersecurity and its governance: cybercrime, cyberwar, cyberterrorism, cyberespionage and hacktivism and the challenges and opportunities in governing them. Each section is complemented with a list of possible questions that members of parliament can raise in relation to the issue. The questions aim to increase government accountability and that of other key cybersecurity stakeholders. They can be included in questions to the government, discussed in public hearings or inspire parliamentary inquires.
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13.01.2017Private Security in Practice: Case studies from Southeast Europe
... Read moreThis research publication looks at eight case studies that explore the impact that private security has on security, human rights and the democratic order in four Southeast European countries: Albania, Bulgaria, Kosovo and Serbia. This publication considers the challenges and the opportunities posed by private security in these case studies by trying to get to its root causes.
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28.01.2020Good Governance in Cybersecurity (FR)
Cyberspace permeates the work of States and the everyday life of citizens, and actors across the security sector are constantly called upon to address emerging challenges such as cybercrime and cyber-attacks. However, in the absence of specific international norms and good practices in cyberspace and the lack of effective oversight, there is an increased risk that security and justice institutions may infringe upon human rights and the rule of law without being held accountable for their actions. The response of these institutions to cyberspace thus needs to be not only effective but incorporate... Read more
Cyberspace permeates the work of States and the everyday life of citizens, and actors across the security sector are constantly called upon to address emerging challenges such as cybercrime and cyber-attacks. However, in the absence of specific international norms and good practices in cyberspace and the lack of effective oversight, there is an increased risk that security and justice institutions may infringe upon human rights and the rule of law without being held accountable for their actions. The response of these institutions to cyberspace thus needs to be not only effective but incorporate all elements of good security sector governance.
With French government funding, DCAF thus developed a Guide pour la bonne gouvernance de la cybersécurité for the new cyber training school that will open in Dakar in 2020 (Ecole nationale en cybersécurité à vocation régionale). The guide provides an overview over international norms and good practices that are relevant for security sector actors in their work in and on cyberspace, and concrete steps by which they can be implemented, particularly with regards to legislation and national strategies. It also contains numerous practical cases from across Africa and beyond.
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02.12.2016The Privatisation of Security in Africa: Challenges and Lessons from Côte d'Ivoire, Mali and Senegal
Private security in Africa is booming. Whether from the perspective of major multinational players or small-scale local enterprises, the market for commercial security has expanded and evolved over recent years. However, policy makers rarely address private security, national parliaments and regulatory bodies provide limited oversight in this area, and the attention of African media and civil society is localised and sporadic. In short, a fundamental shift in the African security landscape is taking place under the radar of democratic governance.
Read more Private security in Africa is booming. Whether from the perspective of major multinational players or small-scale local enterprises, the market for commercial security has expanded and evolved over recent years. However, policy makers rarely address private security, national parliaments and regulatory bodies provide limited oversight in this area, and the attention of African media and civil society is localised and sporadic. In short, a fundamental shift in the African security landscape is taking place under the radar of democratic governance.
The Privatisation of Security in Africa: Challenges and Lessons from Côte d’Ivoire, Mali and Senegal provides expert accounts which portray the realities of the contemporary private security industry in Africa. The volume analyses key characteristics of security privatisation in Africa, offers new insights into the significance of this phenomenon from a security sector governance perspective and identifies specific entry points that should inform processes to promote good governance of the security sector in Africa.
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19.11.2019Gender and Private Security Regulation
This Policy Brief explains why integrating a gender perspective is important to the regulation of private military and security companies (PMSCs) and provides guidance to States on doing so in national legislation, contracting and procurement policies, as well as certification, oversight and accountability frameworks for PMSCs.
This Policy Brief explains why integrating a gender perspective is important to the regulation of private military and security companies (PMSCs) and provides guidance to States on doing so in national legislation, contracting and procurement policies, as well as certification, oversight and accountability frameworks for PMSCs.
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19.02.2016BUSINESS AND SECURITY SECTOR REFORM: The Case of Corporate Security Responsibility
Challenges to security and human rights involving extractive and other industries are addressed in a framework known as business and human rights (BHR), which shares many challenges and goals with security sector reform (SSR). This paper describes the grounds where BHR and SSR coincide in principles, actors and activities and which synergies can be built on that base. Opportunities for bridging BHR and SSR are drawn from a systematic comparison of case studies on Guinea, Colombia and Papua New Guinea. BHR and SSR should ideally cohere instead of collide.
Read more Challenges to security and human rights involving extractive and other industries are addressed in a framework known as business and human rights (BHR), which shares many challenges and goals with security sector reform (SSR). This paper describes the grounds where BHR and SSR coincide in principles, actors and activities and which synergies can be built on that base. Opportunities for bridging BHR and SSR are drawn from a systematic comparison of case studies on Guinea, Colombia and Papua New Guinea. BHR and SSR should ideally cohere instead of collide.
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18.02.2019Supporting Implementation and Networking among Practitioners
On 27-28 February 2018, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica organised the first MDF Regional Meeting in the Latin America and the Caribbean region, with the support of the Co-Chairs of the Montreux Document Forum (MDF) – the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) – along with technical support from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF). Participants considered national and regional experiences of private military and security companies (PMSCs) and... Read more
On 27-28 February 2018, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica organised the first MDF Regional Meeting in the Latin America and the Caribbean region, with the support of the Co-Chairs of the Montreux Document Forum (MDF) – the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) – along with technical support from the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF). Participants considered national and regional experiences of private military and security companies (PMSCs) and identified concrete ways through which the Montreux Document – which highlights pertinent international legal obligations and good practices for states related to operations of PMSCs during armed conflict – can help to strengthen implementation of PMSC oversight and regulations.
This report presents the challenges and state regulatory approaches for PMSCs in the region. It also includes a summary and analysis of the debates, questions, conclusions and recommendations shared during the meeting. The report is based on the panel presentations and interventions made during the discussion sessions, as well as desk-based research and academic sources intended to supplement and contextualize conference discussions.
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28.01.2016TOWARDS AN INTERNATIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PRIVATE SECURITY PROVIDERS: A View from Inside a Multistakeholder Process
The use of private security companies (PSCs) to perform services that are traditionally associated with the state presents a challenge to regulatory and oversight frameworks. Analysing developments leading to the International Code of Conduct for Security Providers (ICOC) and the ICOC Association, this paper argues that a multistakeholder approach to develop standards adapted for the private sector and which creates governance and oversight mechanisms fills some of the governance gaps found in traditional regulatory approaches.
Read more The use of private security companies (PSCs) to perform services that are traditionally associated with the state presents a challenge to regulatory and oversight frameworks. Analysing developments leading to the International Code of Conduct for Security Providers (ICOC) and the ICOC Association, this paper argues that a multistakeholder approach to develop standards adapted for the private sector and which creates governance and oversight mechanisms fills some of the governance gaps found in traditional regulatory approaches.
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20.02.2020The Private Military Industry and Iraq
The private military industry may be one of the most important, but little understood developments in security studies to have taken place over the last decade. This industry, where firms not only supply the goods of warfare but rather fulfil many of the professional service functions, is not only significant to the defence community but has wider ramifications for global politics and warfare.
Where once this highly secretive industry was little known or heard of, a series of events have dragged it into the public limelight. These events range from the controversy over the role... Read more
The private military industry may be one of the most important, but little understood developments in security studies to have taken place over the last decade. This industry, where firms not only supply the goods of warfare but rather fulfil many of the professional service functions, is not only significant to the defence community but has wider ramifications for global politics and warfare.
Where once this highly secretive industry was little known or heard of, a series of events have dragged it into the public limelight. These events range from the controversy over the role of military contractors in the Iraq war to allegations of a bizarre ‘rent a coup’ scandal that spans from Equatorial Guinea to the United Kingdom.
The following paper attempts to provide some transparency and analysis of the private military industry and does so by exploring what this industry is and where it comes from, its role in Iraq, the broader implications that Iraq has brought to the forefront of global politics and national policies, and concluding thoughts on policy responses that need to be developed.
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20.12.2016Armed Private Security in Latin America and the Caribbean: Oversight and Accountability in an Evolving Context
Regional Study
DCAF and the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC) have undertaken a regional study on armed private security in Latin America and the Caribbean, aimed at presenting an updated picture of the private security sector as well as the challenges the sector faces in terms of regulation and small arms control. The private security industry in Latin America and the Caribbean has grown significantly... Read more
Regional Study
DCAF and the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC) have undertaken a regional study on armed private security in Latin America and the Caribbean, aimed at presenting an updated picture of the private security sector as well as the challenges the sector faces in terms of regulation and small arms control. The private security industry in Latin America and the Caribbean has grown significantly over the last 20 years. The study identified 16,174 private security companies in the region, with more than 2,450,000 legal employees working as security guards. Looking across the region, a number of important challenges can be identified in relation to the armed private security sector. These include a lack of specific and complete legal frameworks; informal private security markets; absence of a whole-of-government approach to regulation and oversight; insufficient institutional capacities for regulation and oversight; unclearly defined training requirements for PSC and their personnel; and the physical security and weapons management of PSCs.
This newly gained knowledge is intended to support policy makers, national authorities and industry actors in their efforts to revise and strengthen their approaches to private security oversight and regulation in line with international standards and best practices. Strengthening private security regulation in the region contributes to reinforce both the rule of law and citizen security.
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20.11.2019Private Security Governance and National Action Plans (NAPs) on Business and Human Rights
The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights articulate the obligations of States to protect human rights and the responsibilities of businesses to respect human rights. Given the elevated risks of human rights impacts related to private security, States should give special consideration to this sector within the framework of their National Action Plans (NAPs) on business and human rights. Correspondingly, DCAF and the Danish Institute for Human Rights developed a thematic supplement on private security governance to the National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights Toolkit.... Read more
The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights articulate the obligations of States to protect human rights and the responsibilities of businesses to respect human rights. Given the elevated risks of human rights impacts related to private security, States should give special consideration to this sector within the framework of their National Action Plans (NAPs) on business and human rights. Correspondingly, DCAF and the Danish Institute for Human Rights developed a thematic supplement on private security governance to the National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights Toolkit. The Supplement provides insight and guidance on the analysis of existing legal frameworks and policy responses for the development of new laws, policies, and practices that respond specifically to the human rights risks related to the private security industry. It is a tool for States and other human rights stakeholders, such as national human rights institutions (NHRIs) and civil society organisations (CSOs) as well as private security providers (PSPs) themselves, to evaluate the human rights risks and impacts of ongoing and potential private security operations and services.
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20.07.2016SEGURIDAD PRIVADA EN EL PERÚ: Un Estado Situacional
The first-ever national baseline study on private security in Peru was published by the national regulatory body Superintendencia Nacional de Control de Servicios de Seguridad, Armas, Municiones y Explosivos de Uso Civil (SUCAMEC). The study provides an overview over the current legal framework for private security in Peru; the structure of the private security industry; as well the approach of the national regulator.
The drafting process of the study was supported by DCAF and the United Nations... Read more
The first-ever national baseline study on private security in Peru was published by the national regulatory body Superintendencia Nacional de Control de Servicios de Seguridad, Armas, Municiones y Explosivos de Uso Civil (SUCAMEC). The study provides an overview over the current legal framework for private security in Peru; the structure of the private security industry; as well the approach of the national regulator.
The drafting process of the study was supported by DCAF and the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC) in the framework of a joint regional project. The study will strengthen DCAF’s on-going advisory to the national regulator regarding the update of the regulatory framework and the creation of a national code of conduct for security providers.
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30.10.2019Enhancing the Regulation, Oversight and Governance of the Private Security Industry in the Caribbean Region
... Read moreOn 4-5 February 2019, over 75 representatives of governments, Montreux Document participants, International and Regional Organisations and institutions; civil society organisations; private security companies; and industry association representatives gathered in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, to discuss regulation, oversight and governance of the private security industry in the Caribbean Region.
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23.02.2017Host Government Engagement Strategy Tool (DCAF, ICRC and IPIECA, 2017)
... Read moreThis tool aims to support company representatives prepare for the first consultations with national security actors and establish a strategy for the engagement and communication with security sector representatives. Companies can draw on individual sections of the tool to fill gaps in their preparations for consultations or use the tool in its entirety to establish an engagement and communication strategy.
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23.08.2017The Contract Guidance Tool
The Contract Guidance Tool draws on leading international norms and standards to reflect the principles of responsible procurement and contracting practices, and provides clear and practical guidelines for national contracting officers or procurement specialists. By translating knowledge and research into a practical and easy-to-use format, the Contract Guidance Tool provides implementation support for those individuals drafting, implementing, and monitoring contracts with PMSCs.
Read more The Contract Guidance Tool draws on leading international norms and standards to reflect the principles of responsible procurement and contracting practices, and provides clear and practical guidelines for national contracting officers or procurement specialists. By translating knowledge and research into a practical and easy-to-use format, the Contract Guidance Tool provides implementation support for those individuals drafting, implementing, and monitoring contracts with PMSCs.
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23.02.2017Host Country Security Assessment Guide (DCAF, ICRC and IPIECA, 2017)
... Read moreThe Security Assessment Guide is aimed to assist companies in evaluating the national and regional security contexts and identifying the different challenges that are likely to affect extractive operations. It provides the user with a comprehensive list of guiding questions that allow for a holistic overview of the security situation as well as a detailed analysis of all relevant actors.
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07.04.2016Regulating Private Military and Security Companies: The Montreux Document and the International Code of Conduct
This flyer provides information about development and progress of the Montreux Document and the International Code of Conduct (ICoC), the two complementary but distinct initiatives to promote effective regulation of Private Security Providers.
This flyer provides information about development and progress of the Montreux Document and the International Code of Conduct (ICoC), the two complementary but distinct initiatives to promote effective regulation of Private Security Providers.
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30.10.2019Policy Toolkit - The GCTF Zurich-London Recommendations on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism Online
The Policy Toolkit seeks to provide a practical and user-friendly guide for policy-makers and experts in preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism online. Importantly, the Policy Toolkit is non-exhaustive and intends to offer a point of reference for good practices and case studies.
Read more The Policy Toolkit seeks to provide a practical and user-friendly guide for policy-makers and experts in preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism online. Importantly, the Policy Toolkit is non-exhaustive and intends to offer a point of reference for good practices and case studies.
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25.11.2016The Legislative Guidance Tool
The Legislative Guidance Tool offers a blueprint for legislators to create policies and laws which are in line with internationally recognised good practices. It is aimed at parliamentarians and law and policymakers who undertake to develop new or update existing laws for national legislation of the private military and security industry.
The Legislative Guidance Tool offers a blueprint for legislators to create policies and laws which are in line with internationally recognised good practices. It is aimed at parliamentarians and law and policymakers who undertake to develop new or update existing laws for national legislation of the private military and security industry.
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28.01.2016Addressing Security and Human Rights Challenges in Complex Environments: Toolkit
The Addressing Security and Human Rights Challenges in Complex Environments Toolkit is a guidance document that addresses real-life security and human rights challenges identified through engagement with multiple stakeholders.
The Addressing Security and Human Rights Challenges in Complex Environments Toolkit is a guidance document that addresses real-life security and human rights challenges identified through engagement with multiple stakeholders.
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04.03.2020Regulating the Use of Force by Private Security Providers
This Guidance Tool is intended to support States in regulating the use of force by private security providers. The standards, requirements, and good practices contained in this Tool should be incorporated in national legislation, regulations, by-laws, as well as criteria for licensing, authorisation and registration . Additionally, States can use this Tool to inform their procurement processes when contracting the services of PSPs. This Guidance will not address situations where international humanitarian law applies. Rather, the Tool refers to the private provision of security services in... Read more
This Guidance Tool is intended to support States in regulating the use of force by private security providers. The standards, requirements, and good practices contained in this Tool should be incorporated in national legislation, regulations, by-laws, as well as criteria for licensing, authorisation and registration . Additionally, States can use this Tool to inform their procurement processes when contracting the services of PSPs. This Guidance will not address situations where international humanitarian law applies. Rather, the Tool refers to the private provision of security services in law enforcement contexts. The use of force by private entities in the conduct of hostilities will not be discussed.
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