Ready when the world needs us most.
The Standing Surge Capacity (SSC) is the United Nations' global rapid deployment mechanism, enabling qualified personnel to deploy at short notice in support of critical emergencies, rapidly deteriorating crises and major operational surges. Administered by the Department of Operational Support (DOS) and jointly managed for security functions by the UNDSS Emergency Response Team (ERT), SSC ensures that experienced professionals can reinforce field operations whenever additional capacity is needed.
A Global Network of Security Professionals
Recognizing the growing demand for specialized security expertise during emergencies, DOS and UNDSS established the Security Standing Surge Capacity roster in 2024.
Today, the roster comprises 348 security professionals across 19 specialized security functions, providing the Organization with a diverse pool of expertise that can be mobilized rapidly to support operations worldwide.
Roster members are appointed for two-year terms and may deploy on temporary duty assignments of up to 90 days, responding to emergencies, sudden operational requirements and staffing gaps across the UN system.
Strengthening Operational Readiness
SSC enables UNDSS to reinforce field operations with experienced personnel across a wide range of security functions, including:
- Security coordination
- Crisis management
- Operational support
- Security risk management
- Security analysis
- Training
- Close protection
- Physical security
By maintaining a standing roster of trained professionals, SSC helps ensure that the Organization can respond rapidly while maintaining continuity of operations during periods of increased demand.
More Than a Deployment Roster
SSC is more than a surge mechanism, it is an investment in the Organization's people. Deployments provide personnel with unique opportunities to:
- Gain operational experience in diverse environments
- Develop new technical and operational skills
- Support colleagues during critical emergencies
- Build networks across the UN system
- Contribute directly to global humanitarian and peace operations
Each deployment strengthens not only the receiving operation, but also the experience, knowledge and readiness that personnel bring back to their home offices.
Preparing for Tomorrow's Emergencies
As crises become more frequent, complex and interconnected, the ability to mobilize qualified personnel rapidly has never been more important. The Standing Surge Capacity helps ensure that the UN remains ready to respond, bringing the right expertise, to the right place, at the right time. When crises emerge unexpectedly, preparedness is measured not only by plans, but by people who are ready to deploy. The SSC provides that readiness.