Mitigating risk for an American NGO in Bangladesh
In June 2023, an NGO operating in some of the most challenging countries in the world engaged Healix to swiftly address safety concerns for their operations in Bangladesh. The urgency stemmed from potential unrest linked to the 2024 general election, prompting an evaluation of risk mitigation measures, as well as duty of care commitments tied to a USAID grant.
Challenge
Initially, Healix planned to immediately deploy two staff to Bangladesh. However, facing time constraints and visa complexities, we instead engaged with our local deployed consultant in Bangladesh to handle the assessment with the Global Security Operations Centre giving remote/desktop support. This approach allowed for the timely completion of the project’s three main components: devising an evacuation plan, conducting a project risk assessment, and completing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) review.
Approach
As global security, crisis and risk specialists, Healix analysts were already monitoring the evolving risk landscape in Bangladesh, as well as current and potential threats. Utilising our extensive experience, we tailored a solution for the NGO, acknowledging their specific risk appetite and the complex nature of NGO operations in challenging environments. We conducted a thorough site security audit of the office which evaluated and assessed risks in current and future operational locations. Predominant threats identified included government entities, militant groups, and protestors.
An in-depth SOP review was carried out, providing recommendations for mitigation strategies and response protocols to be followed in the event of a security incident.
Outcome
The outcome of this collaboration was the prompt delivery of a comprehensive evacuation plan and risk assessment within a three-week timeframe and as a result, a satisfied client. The organisation benefited from a strategic readiness framework and a permissive risk assessment tailored for an NGO - who are required to operate in difficult environments. By effectively addressing potential security issues, the NGO was empowered to continue its operations in Bangladesh while prioritising the safety of its personnel.
Healix’s adept handling of this case underscores our adaptable approach, the quality of our deployable assets, and our ability to ensure client preparedness even under stringent time constraints.