From airports to schools and beyond, private security guards play a vital role in keeping our communities safe. Despite their critical role, the sector is plagued by issues of poor pay, unsafe working conditions and pervasive harassment. The recent report “Insecurity in Security,” commissioned by UNI Global Union and conducted by Jarrow Insights, surveyed over 11,000 security workers across 35 countries, revealing the harsh realities faced by those tasked with protecting us. This builds on previous research, such as ICoCA’s joint project with UNI Global Union, “When the Abused Becomes the Abuser,” which examined how poor working conditions impact the rights of security personnel and, in turn, shape their treatment of the public. Together, these findings underscore the urgent need for reform within the private security industry.
The dire state of private security worldwide
In a world increasingly reliant on private security, it’s easy to overlook the individuals who stand as our first line of defence against danger and chaos. From bustling airports to quiet residential areas, security workers ensure our safety often at the expense of their own. We recently asked over 11,000 security workers from 35 countries for their insights regarding their working conditions, and most security officers said they feel underpaid, unsafe and in urgent need of union representation.
We learn this thanks to UNI Global Union´s new report, “Insecurity in Security” which sheds light on the severe challenges these workers face daily. The findings are both startling and sobering and call for immediate industry-wide reforms.
As someone deeply committed to improving labour conditions, I believe it is crucial to bring these issues to the forefront, advocating for better treatment and respect for those who protect us.
The state of pay in security work
One of the most striking revelations from the report is the pervasive pay dissatisfaction among security workers. Over 57 per cent of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their pay, with less than 10 per cent reporting being very satisfied. This discontent is exacerbated by the rising cost of living globally, making it increasingly difficult for workers to make ends meet. The report highlights that many security workers are forced to work overtime, often without appropriate compensation, further straining their mental and physical well-being.
Security workers frequently find themselves in precarious financial situations due to irregular pay. Testimonials from the report reveal the stark realities of these economic pressures. For instance, a security worker from Germany referred to their wages as “starvation wages,” while another from the Ivory Coast highlighted the psychological toll of financial insecurity on their families.
Unsafe and under attack
Beyond financial struggles, security workers face significant safety concerns. Nearly one-in-five respondents reported feeling very unsafe in their jobs, with many citing frequent harassment and discrimination. The report indicates that about half of all security workers have experienced some form of harassment or discrimination, with women and foreign-born workers facing even higher rates of mistreatment.
The types of harassment reported vary widely, from verbal abuse and threats to physical violence. For example, a security worker from the United Kingdom recounted being assaulted while on duty, while another from Kenya described daily verbal harassment from employers when refusing to work overtime. These incidents are not isolated but represent a troubling pattern of abuse and neglect across the industry.
Lack of respect and support
The lack of respect and support from employers further compounds these issues. Only a third of respondents felt respected by their employers, with many reporting a significant lack of adequate training. This deficiency in training leaves workers ill-prepared to handle the challenges of their roles, increasing their vulnerability to harm and reducing their effectiveness.
The testimonies in the report underscore this neglect. Workers from several countries shared experiences of inadequate training and the feeling of being treated as expendable commodities rather than valued employees. For instance, a worker from Norway highlighted the absence of any safety measures unless legally mandated, reflecting a broader industry trend of prioritizing profits over employee well-being.
The role of Unions
Despite these daunting challenges, the study also offers a glimmer of hope through the positive impact of unions. Unionized workers report better working conditions, improved pay, and a stronger sense of safety. More than half of unionized respondents indicated that union membership had positively impacted their working conditions.
We know that unions provide a crucial platform for workers to voice their concerns and advocate for better treatment. The report details numerous instances where union efforts led to significant improvements, such as better pay and safer working environments. However, the fight for unionization is often met with resistance from employers, with many workers experiencing discrimination and harassment for their union activities.
The findings from the “Insecurity in Security” report are a cry for urgent action in the private security industry. The sector’s reliance on underpaid, overworked, and undervalued employees is unsustainable and unjust. It is imperative that we address these issues head-on, advocating for fair compensation, comprehensive training, and robust protections against harassment and discrimination.
Security workers are essential yet neglected members of our society. Their safety, dignity, and well-being must become a priority. Empowering these workers through unionization and collective bargaining is a crucial step towards achieving these goals. It is time for employers, policymakers, and the public to recognize the invaluable contributions of security workers and ensure they receive the respect and support they deserve.
Together, we can work towards a more equitable and secure future for all.