Colleagues and Partners,
Good morning/afternoon, and welcome to this important workshop on Gender-Sensitive Security Risk Management.
Across the world, UN personnel operate in a complex global security environment, facing many challenges including those that are gender-based. The same is true here in South-East Asia, where our colleagues are at risk of violence and other security-related threats linked to gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Unfortunately, Gender-Based Security Incidents affecting WHO personnel remain underreported. This limits our understanding of their full scope and impact. We do know, however, that these incidents have far-reaching consequences—not just for the individuals concerned, but also their families and colleagues. These impact our collective ability to deliver effectively.
It is therefore imperative that our Security Risk Management and day-to-day security operations be inclusive, gender-sensitive, and respectful of diversity. WHO has consistently championed this approach, advocating for security management that is people-centred and supportive of diversity and inclusion, one of the core principles of the UN Security Management System.
Today’s workshop builds on that commitment and is appropriately timed as we approach the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. It is also an extension of our commitment to the wellbeing of females, as directed by our Regional Roadmap for Results and Resilience.
I encourage you all to engage actively, as your insights and recommendations will help strengthen our preparedness and enhance our institutional response to gender-based security incidents.
My thanks to our colleagues from RSO, GER-PRS, and RMS units for organizing this event, and my appreciation to all participants from UNDSS, UN Women, UNDP, ADB, and other partner agencies. Your collaboration makes this initiative stronger and more inclusive.
Thank you.