Security and human rights

Our approach to security

In countries where the rule of law is weak, protecting staff and facilities can be complicated. The police or army is not an option in some countries where corruption or the use of harsh security methods are common.

All companies we control must manage security in line with our company-wide security standards.

Shell’s security standards

They only permit armed security to be used when the law requires it or there is no other acceptable way to manage the risks. When we do rely on armed guards they must follow Shell’s guidelines in this area. They are based on UN guidelines and conventions on the use of force, and the Voluntary Principles. They require armed guards to first try to resolve a security incident without using force. If this fails then only the minimum force needed can be used, and help offered to anyone injured as a result, including offenders. Regular checks are made on whether armed guards understand these rules.

Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights

Our Group Security Standards (GSS) include the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights. Developed by non-governmental organisations (NGOs), governments and companies, the Voluntary Principles are a guide for companies on risk assessment and interactions with public and private security.

Shell has been an active supporter of the Voluntary Principles since their inception in 2000.

For a description see the Voluntary Principles website - opens in new window. 

How we are implementing the Voluntary Principles

We included the Voluntary Principles in our Group Security Standards (GSS) in 2007. As a result the standard risk assessment that all our operations are required to do every year now covers background checks on security staff to make sure they have no past record of human rights abuse, and checks that security staff have been trained in using these Principles.

We now refer to the Voluntary Principles in our contracts with private security companies and when working with government security forces.