Improving Security Standards in Ukraine

From 24 to 27 March, ICoCA held its first high-level meetings in Ukraine. In collaboration with the Swiss Embassy, we co-hosted roundtables with national authorities, as well as members of the diplomatic and humanitarian communities, to discuss responsible private security practices and explore the support ICoCA can provide to Ukraine.

Private security providers play a crucial role in high-risk and complex environments, including Ukraine. When operating responsibly—in compliance with international standards and within appropriate national regulatory frameworks—these providers help create safer conditions that are essential for national and regional stabilisation efforts and economic development.

During our visit, we had the opportunity to meet with key industry stakeholders and engage with both long-standing ICoCA Members (Argus, Control Risks, GardaWorld) and prospective companies interested in aligning with ICoCA’s responsible security standards. Our discussions focused on strengthening the private security sector’s commitment to compliance, accountability and human rights protections.

We would like to thank ICoCA Observer SEAL Ukraine, Andrii Linnichenko, ASIS International Ukraine Chapter, Viktor Drobotenko, Sergiy Pogrebnoy, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for their invaluable support and contributions to making this trip possible. This visit marks an important step in strengthening responsible private security practices in Ukraine. ICoCA remains committed to supporting national and regional efforts, collaborating with stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of security and human rights protection.