Armed escorts in humanitarian work : a discussion of use and implications

Abstract

The discussion surrounding security measures in the NGO community is somewhat lacking in the IR field of theory, as well as within the NGO community itself. The impact and effects of having an armed escort for NGOs delivering aid seems to be overall lacking in both practical and theoretical debate. This thesis seeks out to not only present the current discussions surrounding the impact and effects of NGOs having armed escorts, but it also wishes to ignite a discussion surrounding this topic. The thesis aims to answer how the security measures of NGOs impact their own security, their role as well as their perceived impartiality. To achieve this goal, I have interviewed ten NGO workers who are currently working in the field, or who was sent home during the ongoing pandemic.