Given the increasing importance of Third-Party Monitoring (TPM) in the monitoring and evaluation toolbox, this report explores the security challenges faced during TPM activities in insecure environments, covering views of TPM providers, field monitors, and contracting agencies (INGOs) with experience in Syria. The study’s core objective was to identify best practices and recommendations to adress future security challenges relevant to the broader humanitarian community, particularly all stakeholders involved in commissioning, supporting, and providing TPM services.
About the Research
The conflict in Syria continues to present severe challenges for humanitarian assistance. From its onset, the constantly shifting frontlines and volatile security situation have forced humanitarian actors to implement remote management techniques and to work from neighbouring countries. TPM, which did not exist at the start of the conflict, has become an integral part of the remote monitoring and evaluation toolbox in Syria as its use has rapidly expanded over the years.
The main purpose of the research was to identify the security challenges faced by TPM providers, contracting agencies, and field monitors, as well as to understand the main drivers of these challenges. It equally assesses the potential risk transfer from contracting agencies to TPM providers and field monitors and collects best practices about risk prevention and mitigation.
Methodology
The research objectives were addressed through a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative and quantitative components. Data triangulation and the inclusion of all stakeholders involved in TPM activities were at the forefront during the design of the mixed-methods approach.
Best Practices and Recommendations
