Introduction
A Guide to Insurance for NGOs Operating in Violent Environments
Insurance is an important form of risk management for NGOs that might not be able to bear a significant unplanned financial loss resulting from a security or medical incident in the field. Yet, engaging with brokers and insurers to purchase the right insurance policies can be a confusing and sometimes frustrating process. Polices are commonly long, complex documents that are full of jargon and multiple inclusions, exclusions, endorsements and conditions.
This guide aims to support organisations that purchase and manage travel; personal accident; kidnap, ransom and extortion; and crisis solution policies. It aims to explain the key terminology and provide recommendations to help organisations avoid common pitfalls. The advice is primarily aimed at organisations purchasing insurance products in the United Kingdom; however, many of the principles are relevant in other jurisdictions. This guide does not encompass other types of business insurance that organisations should have in place (e.g. professional indemnity, public liability, buildings and contents, and vehicle).
Note that not every negative economic event is insurable. As such, individuals and organisations may need to self-insure against some events by setting aside resources to cover possible future losses.
The losses may not always be financial, but policies reduce losses to financial terms.
Originally published by Open Briefing, 2018. This version published 2022.
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Disclaimer: This document is not written by a qualified insurance adviser; however, the author has extensive sector relevant experience, including engaging with brokers, insurers and crisis responders over a number of years. This document does not constitute legal advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Open Briefing will not be liable for any loss, damage or inconvenience arising as a consequence of any use of any information or advice in this document.
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