International protocols and cooperation
Expert-defined terms from the Executive Certification in Crisis Management for Hostage Situations course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
International Protocols and Cooperation Glossary #
International Protocols and Cooperation Glossary
A #
A
Ad Hoc Committee #
A temporary committee established for a specific purpose, often in response to a crisis or urgent situation. Ad hoc committees are commonly formed to address issues that fall outside the scope of existing structures.
Agreement #
A formal arrangement between two or more parties outlining the terms and conditions of their cooperation. Agreements can be bilateral or multilateral and may cover a wide range of issues, such as information sharing, resource allocation, or joint operations.
Arbitration #
A method of dispute resolution in which an impartial third party, known as an arbitrator, reviews the arguments and evidence presented by the parties involved and makes a binding decision. Arbitration is often used in international disputes to avoid lengthy court proceedings.
B #
B
Bilateral Cooperation #
Cooperation between two parties, such as countries, organizations, or agencies, to achieve common goals or address shared challenges. Bilateral cooperation can take many forms, including information sharing, joint exercises, or resource pooling.
Border Security #
Measures taken to secure a country's borders and prevent unauthorized entry or exit. Border security is essential for managing migration flows, preventing the spread of diseases, and combating transnational crime.
C #
C
Command and Control #
The exercise of authority and direction by a designated commander over assigned forces in the accomplishment of a mission. Command and control structures are crucial in crisis management to ensure coordination and communication among all parties involved.
Communication Protocol #
A set of rules and conventions governing the exchange of information between parties. Communication protocols define how data is transmitted, received, and processed, ensuring interoperability and security.
Conflict Resolution #
The process of addressing and resolving disputes or disagreements between parties. Conflict resolution techniques include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and diplomacy.
Cooperation #
The act of working together towards a common goal or objective. Cooperation is essential in crisis management to ensure effective response and coordination among all stakeholders.
D #
D
Debriefing #
A structured process of reviewing and analyzing an event or operation after it has concluded. Debriefing allows participants to reflect on their actions, identify lessons learned, and improve future performance.
Declaration of Intent #
A formal statement expressing the intention of parties to collaborate or work together towards a specific goal. Declarations of intent are often used in international relations to signal commitment and establish a framework for cooperation.
Diplomatic Channels #
Formal channels of communication established between governments or diplomatic missions to facilitate dialogue, negotiation, and cooperation. Diplomatic channels are essential for resolving international disputes and managing crises.
E #
E
Emergency Response #
The immediate actions taken to address and mitigate the impact of an emergency or crisis. Emergency response involves mobilizing resources, coordinating efforts, and providing assistance to those affected.
Evacuation Plan #
A pre-determined strategy outlining the procedures and protocols for safely evacuating individuals from a dangerous or hazardous situation. Evacuation plans are essential in crisis management to ensure the orderly and efficient removal of people from harm's way.
Extradition #
The legal process by which one country surrenders a suspected or convicted criminal to another country for prosecution or punishment. Extradition is governed by international treaties and agreements.
F #
F
Force Majeure #
A legal term referring to unforeseeable circumstances that prevent parties from fulfilling their obligations under a contract or agreement. Force majeure events may include natural disasters, wars, or other emergencies.
Foreign Aid #
Assistance provided by one country to another in the form of money, resources, or expertise to support development, humanitarian relief, or crisis response. Foreign aid is often coordinated through bilateral or multilateral channels.
G #
G
Good Neighbor Policy #
A diplomatic approach emphasizing cooperation, mutual respect, and peaceful relations between neighboring countries. Good neighbor policies aim to prevent conflicts, promote stability, and foster economic development in the region.
Global Governance #
The system of rules, norms, and institutions that regulate international relations and address global challenges. Global governance mechanisms include international organizations, treaties, and agreements.
H #
H
Humanitarian Assistance #
Aid provided to alleviate the suffering of people affected by natural disasters, conflicts, or other emergencies. Humanitarian assistance includes food, shelter, medical care, and other essential services.
Hostage Negotiation #
The process of communicating with hostage takers to secure the safe release of hostages and resolve the crisis peacefully. Hostage negotiation requires specialized skills, training, and tactics.
I #
I
Incident Command System (ICS) #
A standardized management system used to coordinate and integrate emergency response activities across multiple agencies and jurisdictions. ICS ensures a common approach to command, control, and coordination during crises.
Information Sharing #
The exchange of data, intelligence, or knowledge among parties to enhance situational awareness, decision-making, and collaboration. Information sharing is essential in crisis management to facilitate coordinated response efforts.
Intelligence Sharing #
The sharing of classified or sensitive information among intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to prevent threats, detect risks, and respond to security challenges. Intelligence sharing is crucial for effective crisis management.
J #
J
Joint Exercises #
Collaborative training activities conducted by multiple agencies, organizations, or countries to enhance coordination, interoperability, and preparedness for emergencies. Joint exercises simulate crisis scenarios to test response capabilities.
K #
K
Key Stakeholders #
Individuals, groups, or organizations that have a vested interest in or are directly affected by a crisis. Key stakeholders play a crucial role in crisis management by providing resources, expertise, and support.
L #
L
Logistical Support #
The provision of resources, infrastructure, and services to support crisis response operations. Logistical support includes transportation, communication, accommodation, and other essential functions.
M #
M
Mediation #
A process of facilitated negotiation in which a neutral third party helps parties in conflict reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediation is used to resolve disputes, reduce tensions, and prevent escalation.
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) #
A formal agreement between parties outlining their intentions, commitments, and responsibilities in a specific area of cooperation. MOUs are commonly used to establish partnerships, joint projects, or collaborations.
Multilateral Cooperation #
Cooperation involving three or more parties, such as countries, organizations, or agencies, to address common challenges or achieve shared goals. Multilateral cooperation often requires coordination, negotiation, and consensus-building.
N #
N
Non #
Governmental Organization (NGO): A non-profit organization that operates independently of government authorities to address social, humanitarian, or environmental issues. NGOs play a vital role in crisis response, advocacy, and service delivery.
Negotiation #
A process of communication and bargaining between parties in conflict to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Negotiation is a key skill in crisis management for resolving disputes, making decisions, and finding common ground.
O #
O
Operational Coordination #
The process of organizing, directing, and synchronizing activities and resources to achieve common objectives. Operational coordination is essential in crisis management to ensure effective response and optimal use of resources.
Outreach Strategy #
A plan for engaging with stakeholders, communities, or the public to share information, gather feedback, and build trust. Outreach strategies are used in crisis communication to enhance transparency, credibility, and collaboration.
P #
P
Public #
Private Partnership: Collaboration between government agencies and private sector entities to address common challenges, deliver public services, or promote economic development. Public-private partnerships are increasingly used in crisis management to leverage resources, expertise, and innovation.
Protocol #
A set of rules, procedures, or guidelines governing the conduct and interactions of parties in a specific context. Protocols are used to ensure consistency, efficiency, and compliance in crisis management.
Q #
Q
Quarantine #
The isolation and restriction of movement of individuals or goods to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Quarantine measures are used in public health emergencies to contain outbreaks and protect public health.
R #
R
Recovery Phase #
The period following an emergency or crisis when efforts are focused on restoring normalcy, rebuilding infrastructure, and supporting affected communities. The recovery phase aims to recover from the impact of the crisis and prevent future disasters.
Resource Mobilization #
The process of securing and allocating resources, such as personnel, equipment, funding, and supplies, to support crisis response operations. Resource mobilization is crucial for effective and timely emergency management.
S #
S
Security Council #
A body within the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security. The Security Council has the authority to impose sanctions, authorize military action, and issue resolutions to address conflicts and crises.
Situation Report (SitRep) #
A concise summary of the current situation, developments, and actions taken in response to an emergency or crisis. Situation reports are used to communicate information, assess progress, and inform decision-making.
T #
T
Terrorism #
The use of violence or intimidation to achieve political, religious, or ideological goals. Terrorism poses a significant threat to international security and requires coordinated efforts to prevent, combat, and respond to attacks.
Treaty #
A formal agreement between two or more countries that establishes legal obligations and rights. Treaties are binding under international law and cover a wide range of issues, including security, trade, and human rights.
U #
U
United Nations (UN) #
An international organization founded in 1945 to promote peace, security, and cooperation among nations. The UN plays a central role in crisis management, conflict resolution, and humanitarian assistance worldwide.
Unified Command #
A command structure in which multiple agencies or jurisdictions share responsibility for managing a crisis or emergency. Unified command ensures coordination, cooperation, and effective decision-making among all stakeholders.
V #
V
Verification #
The process of confirming the accuracy, authenticity, or compliance of information, documents, or actions. Verification is crucial in crisis management to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of response efforts.
Volunteer Organizations #
Non-profit organizations that mobilize volunteers to provide assistance, support, and services in response to emergencies, disasters, or crises. Volunteer organizations play a vital role in community resilience and recovery.
W #
W
Warning Systems #
Systems used to alert individuals, communities, or authorities to imminent threats, hazards, or emergencies. Warning systems may include sirens, alarms, notifications, or broadcasts to ensure timely and effective response.
Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) #
Weapons that can cause significant harm or destruction to a large number of people, infrastructure, or the environment. WMDs include nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons and pose a serious threat to global security.
X #
X
Xenophobia #
A fear or hatred of foreigners, immigrants, or people from different cultural backgrounds. Xenophobia can lead to discrimination, violence, and social tensions, posing challenges to international cooperation and crisis management.
Y #
Y
Yield Management #
A strategy used to optimize the allocation of limited resources, such as seats on a plane or rooms in a hotel, to maximize revenue and efficiency. Yield management techniques can be applied in crisis situations to prioritize tasks, allocate resources, and achieve objectives.
Z #
Z
Zero #
sum Game: A situation in which one party's gain is directly offset by another party's loss. Zero-sum games are characterized by competitive, win-lose dynamics that can hinder cooperation, compromise, and conflict resolution in crisis situations.