A man entering a vehicle in an area with damaged houses
A UNDSS personnel in Gaza

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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Message from USG Gilles Michaud on the occasion of World Humanitarian Day 2025

A man with spectacles inside a car.

On World Humanitarian Day 2025, USG Gilles Michaud speaks from Gaza, honoring humanitarian workers and calling for their protection. Local colleagues—who make up 90% of the workforce—are the backbone of life-saving operations worldwide...

Vehicles in a convoy position going through a town setup.

UNDSS in Action – Inside a Humanitarian Convoy to North Gaza

Convoy operations play a vital role in Gaza, helping to move United Nations and NGO personnel safely through one of the most challenging environments in the world. UNDSS has been at the forefront of these efforts, handling the planning, coordination, and security that make each mission possible.

A man wearing a helmet in an urban setting.

On the Ground with UNDSS: Supporting UN Operations in Pokrovsk

Join Artem Chystiak from UNDSS in Pokrovsk, eastern Ukraine—once home to 60,000, now just 2,000. See how UNDSS supports the UN in delivering life-saving aid in one of the country’s highest-risk areas.

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Security for a Better World

United Nations Security Explained