United Kingdom – Security Sector 1st NAP

The UK 2013 NAP refers to security in the section devoted to Actions Taken [page 10]:

“To give effect to the UN Guiding Principles, we have:

(iv) played a leading role in developing the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers (ICOC). This sets out companies’ commitments to standards of behaviour, particularly on human rights, and will be independently audited. By June 2013 a total of 659 companies had signed the ICOC, including about a third from the UK.

(v) taken account of business activity in conflict and fragile states, or countries with high levels of criminal violence, within the Building Stability Overseas Strategy. Companies operating in these difficult environments have an important role to play in contributing to stability, growth, development, prosperity and the protection of human rights. We support the implementation of the OECD Risk Awareness Tool for Multinational Enterprises in Weak Governance Zones. We will also continue to help develop, and monitor implementation of, OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict Affected and High-Risk Areas. The Government will also continue to encourage higher standards in the diamond supply chain. …”

The UK 2013 NAP notes in the section on New Actions Planned that [page 11]:

“The Government will do the following to reinforce its implementation of its commitments under Pillar 1 of the UNGPs:

… (ii) Begin certifying Private Security Companies in the UK based on the agreed UK standard for land-based companies, by working with the UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) to take forward the certification process, ensuring this includes expert human rights advice. We will also agree a standard for maritime PSCs this year. We will take forward our work with the Swiss, Australian and US governments, industry and NGOs to establish an international mechanism to monitor compliance with the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers. We will engage with state and non-state clients to urge them to commit to contracting only with PSCs that are pursuing certification against recognised standards by accredited certifying bodies, and membership of the ICOC Association.

(iii) Work together with partners in the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights to strengthen the implementation, effectiveness and membership of the Voluntary Principles, including through the UK Chairmanship of the initiative beginning in March 2014. …”