Existing means and techniques for effective communication to avoid and diffuse RSD-related security
incidents including:
• Non-antagonistic interview techniques
• Delivering bad news
• Responding to threats
• Diffusing anger
• Responding to persons who are mentally ill or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
2.4.4 Security in Physical Facilities Used for RSD
UNHCR Offices should consult relevant UNHCR resources including Field Security Advisor(s) in the
region or the Field Security Service at UNHCR Headquarters (where no FSA exists) as necessary to ensure
that the physical facilities and layout of the particular UNHCR Office are appropriate for conducting RSD
procedures in the specific security environment. UNDSS may also be a resource and should be consulted
if the facility is in a common UN premises.
STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
GUIDELINES FOR SECURITY IN PHYSICAL FACILITIES FOR RSD
The facilities should comply with the standardized UN physical security requirements in terms of
perimeter protection, access control, electronic security, fire safety, and, where applicable, explosive
threat mitigation / building structural resistance.
The entrance gate for asylum-seekers and other persons of concern should be physically separate
from the staff and visitors’ entrance.
Areas used for reception and designated waiting areas should be separated from the main Office
space by a guarded door.
The layout of the Office should permit a simple and direct routing of asylum-seekers and other
persons of concern between the waiting area and the rooms used for interviewing.
All spaces used for reception and interviewing should permit easy unobstructed exit for UNHCR
staff. Interview rooms should be cleared of breakable objects or any items that could be used as a
weapon, this includes cables and wires. All interview rooms should be equipped with panic buttons.
Where the threat assessment deems it necessary and depending on the operational environment,
RSD personnel should check the rooms to ensure that nothing has been placed or modified that may
be used as a weapon, self-harm or could compromise the confidentiality of the interview.
Where used, clear provisions should be made on the handling of video and/or audio recordings in line
with UNHCR’s policies on the protection of personal data of persons of concern.
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Procedural Standards for RSD under UNHCR’s Mandate