A crowded area with many children
UNDSS team in Gaza facilitating a high-level visit to a UN field site. UNDSS

Who we are

As a global leader in security risk management principles, UNDSS is responsible for providing leadership, operational support and oversight of the United Nations security management system (UNSMS) worldwide. Present in 131 countries where UN operates, UNDSS enables the safe and effective delivery of United Nations programmes and activities in the most complex and challenging environments, while maximizing resources.

Our Mission

We enable United Nations system operations through trusted security leadership and solutions.

Our Vision

Security for the UN, for a better world.

Understanding UN Security

The United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) enables the activities of UNSMS organizations within acceptable levels of security risk. The UNSMS unites over 50 member organizations, with a primary objective of facilitating the operations of these entities while maintaining an acceptable level of security. Fifteen of these members serve as key decision-makers within the Inter-Agency Security Management Network (IASMN), which is an integral part of the UNSMS. Within this framework, the UNSMS plays a pivotal role in guiding, supporting, and acting as recipients of the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) services.

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United Nations Security and Safety Services: Safeguarding Global Diplomacy

For 77 years, we in the United Nations Security and Safety Services have safeguarded the spaces where global decisions are made. We ensure that world leaders can meet, deliberate, and act in safety and confidence. From the General Assembly in New York to major diplomatic events around the world, our presence may be quiet, but it is essential. We ensure that dialogue across peoples and nations can take place safely and effectively.
A man holding an aluminium key

Who Has the Keys to the United Nations?

Deep in the basement of UN Headquarters, behind unmarked doors and away from diplomatic spotlights, a small team of certified locksmiths’ guards one of the organization's most critical functions: access to every room, office, and secure area across the sprawling 18-acre Manhattan complex. Read more

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20 Years of UNDSS: Behind Every UN Operation

United Nations Security Explained