An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
Pre-departure Security Workshop for those involved in international cooperation (and their partner), leaving for an assignment abroad
This workshop, in various contexts – three examples
Ines. 36 yrs old, Programme Coordinator at HQ of a Swiss organisation
Professional background
Studied international humanitarian law and specialised in refugee and occupied territory issues
Personal circumstances
Has an 11-year-old daughter whom she is raising alone
His story
“As part of my work, I have to travel regularly to Lebanon, Syria and Jordan to monitor and coordinate child protection projects.“
Her objective for the workshop
“I know the region quite well but do not speak Arabic, which is a handicap. How can I prepare for travelling in these fragile contexts and improve my personal security? And what advice can I give to the local colleagues I supervise?“
Karim, 41 yrs old, accompanying partner
Professional background
After several IT jobs, wants to become a consultant. Has little knowledge of international cooperation, except through his wife, working at SDCSwiss Agency for Development and Cooperation
Personal circumstances
His wife has been appointed to a position in Bangladesh, so the family will go to South Asia for 4 years
Her story
“Despite my Iraqi origin, I have never lived in Asia, and am not a practicing Muslim. I don‘t know cinfo – it is my wife who told me about the pre-departure security workshop.“
His objective for the workshop
“How can I prepare myself to live in a country where I will be part of an ethnic minority? We also have questions about family life and our daughter‘s education in this context.“
Patrick, 28 yrs old, volunteer for a human rights NGO
Professional background
Has just completed a master‘s degree in international relations at the Graduate Institute, and is preparing for a 6-month stay in Honduras as a volunteer
Personal circumstances
This assignment will be his first time in Latin America. Has learned Spanish, which he masters quite well
Her story
“I will be based in Tegucigalpa. I have read that there is a lot of crime in Honduras, including gangs of young delinquents called maras“
His objective for the workshop
“Will I come across those gangs? I‘ve also heard that corruption is quite widespread. How can I protect myself from it? “
Daniel Glinz
After 8 years as a newspaper correspondent in East Asia, Daniel joined the ICRC, where he worked for 15+ years as a delegate (Kuwait, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, India, Colombia and Mexico), team leader, trainer and finally as a manager. Originally trained in sinology (Leiden University), he completed his portfolio with a Federal Certification in Adult Training, a MAS in Transcultural Communication and certification as a professional coach. Empowered by his vast and varied professional experience, which he combines with a sharp wit and innovative, out-of-the-box pedagogical methods, he is always keen to inspire and support you.