our WORK
Advancing the Rights, Protection and Empowerment of Local Staff
At Local Staff International (LSI), we take a forward-looking, solutions-driven approach to advancing the rights, protection, and empowerment of local staff who support military, humanitarian, development, and diplomatic missions. We coordinate a global network of professionals, practitioners, researchers, and advocates committed to ensuring that local staff are not only protected from harm, but recognised as rights-bearing individuals whose safety, dignity, and legal protections must be upheld before, during, and after missions.
Our community works to strengthen safeguards, clarify responsibilities, and advance practical standards that close long-standing protection gaps. We champion a world in which the contributions of local staff are formally recognised, their rights are embedded in policy and practice, and their full potential is supported — not sidelined.
Through structured knowledge exchange, policy advocacy and research, and sustained cross-sector collaboration, we work to build durable systems of accountability and protection.
Mission
Safeguarding the rights and dignity of local staff worldwide, ensuring comprehensive support and advocacy for their essential roles in global missions.
We advance this mission by promoting proactive, enforceable protection frameworks that require employing states and relevant institutions to anticipate risk and plan accordingly. We work to embed worst-case scenario planning, clear lines of responsibility, and durable safeguards across all phases of engagement — before, during, and after service. In parallel, we advocate for access to comprehensive legal, social, psychological, and medical supports to address the impacts of service and to uphold the long-term welfare of local staff and their families.
Vision
A world where Local Staff supporting humanitarian, development, diplomatic, civilian and/or military missions are valued, protected, and empowered.
We envision a future in which employing countries and international organisations place the well-being of Local Staff at the forefront — proactively planning for risk and implementing clear safeguards to mitigate harm. Where Local Staff have access to comprehensive support systems that address their diverse needs and uphold their safety, rights, and dignity. Through sustained advocacy and partnership, we seek to foster a global environment that recognises their vital contributions and responds responsibly to the unique risks they face.
Building durable systems
of accountability & protection
Through structured knowledge exchange, policy advocacy and research, and sustained cross-sector collaboration,
we work to build durable systems of accountability and protection.
Policy Advocacy & Research
We influence national and international policies and legal frameworks to safeguard local staff rights, creating lasting legislative impact and a safer work environment.
Collaboration for Change
Our partnerships with various stakeholders amplify our impact, fostering a unified approach to champion the cause of local staff.
Knowledge Exchange
We share best practices with national and international partners to enable them to confidently navigate global protection challenges related to their local staff and offer training and resources to enhance local staff’s professional and personal empowerment.