Contingency Planning Issues
In developing observer logistics plans, particularly those that have elements dependent on functioning technological capabilities or the assured availability of materials, communication or transportation resources at critical periods, it is always prudent to have in place back-up arrangements. Similarly, contingency plans to cope with assessed potential emergencies, whether involving security or the natural environment, are essential for ensuring the safety of observer personnel. Such safety considerations may require coordination with local or international security forces in planning emergency evacuation procedures. These back-up and contingency plans should form part of the overall logistics arrangements known to all observers.
Risk Assessments
There are numerous things that could go wrong with observation logistics. Electricity may fail, eliminating lighting and bringing computer operations and telecommunications to a halt. Telecommunications may be affected by the condition and load capacities of the network. Weather conditions or political activity may impede transportation. Radio communications may be affected by weather, sudden unavailability of frequencies or jamming. Materials and equipment required may not arrive, due to error or pressure on suppliers. In volatile situations, the safety of observers may be compromised by political or criminal activity, and attempts may be made to sabotage observer equipment.
Logistics planners should undertake thorough risk assessments of the observation project's physical, infrastructure, and political environments, so there are no unforeseen contingencies. Application of risk management principles will then allow the development of plans for potential contingencies according to their impact on the effectiveness and safety of observation.
Back-Up Methods
Generally, contingency plans should rely on using robust and relatively low-tech resources. While the needs for contingency plans will vary depending on the local environment and infrastructure, possible examples would include:
- using word of mouth, foot messengers, or public radio announcements for communications;
- providing spare battery packs for portable computers;
- back-up typewriters and calculators to replace computers;
- use of public transportation systems and bicycles;
- ensuring potential availability of accommodations (billeting or tents) and emergency non-electric lighting;
- flexibility in timing of deployment to overcome adverse weather.
Some of the best contingency planning consists of ensuring logistics plans use sophisticated methods only where these are absolutely necessary for the task. Simple systems and methods are generally the most reliable and robust.
