What we examined (see Focus of the audit)

Global Affairs Canada operates 175 diplomatic and consular missions in 110 countries. Security events, such as terrorist attacks in Europe, Africa, and Asia, as well as ongoing instability and armed conflict in the Middle East, mean that the security environment in which these missions operate is evolving and dynamic.

This audit focused on whether Global Affairs Canada met its physical security needs at missions abroad to protect its staff and assets.

Why we did this audit

This audit is important because missions are exposed to a range of security threats. The safety and security of those working in and visiting missions abroad depends on accurate and timely assessments of threats and risks, the physical and operational measures in place to mitigate risks, and the awareness and proper training of staff members.

Overall message

Overall, Global Affairs Canada had not taken all measures needed to keep pace with evolving security threats at its missions abroad. The Department had identified security deficiencies that needed immediate attention at many of its missions. Many of these deficiencies were significant. Several had been identified years ago, yet not all of the recommended measures to address them were in place. These measures included improved video surveillance, alarms, and installation of vehicle barriers at entrances.

We found that most of the Department’s capital projects to upgrade security were at least three years behind schedule, usually because of weaknesses in the Department’s project management and oversight.

Because security assessments were missing or incomplete for many missions, Global Affairs Canada did not have the information it needed to prioritize investments on the basis of where they were most needed. Setbacks in resolving physical security vulnerabilities at Canadian missions delay the effective protection of staff members and assets abroad.

What we found about …

Adequacy of physical security at missions

• Selected missions had significant physical security vulnerabilities

• Some security assessments were out of date, incomplete, or non-existent

Physical security upgrades at missions

• Three missions received most of the physical security upgrades

• Major physical security projects were significantly delayed, mostly because of poor project planning

Security awareness training for mission staff

• Many mission staff working in dangerous locations had not taken mandatory training

Entity Responses to Recommendations

The entity agrees with our recommendations and has responded (see List of Recommendations).

Related information

Report of the	Auditor General of Canada
Type of product	Performance audit
Topics	Financial Management and Government Spending Foreign Affairs Information Management Safety and Security
Entities	Global Affairs Canada
Completion date	31 August 2018
Tabling date	20 November 2018
Related audits	Report 7—Consular Services to Canadians Abroad—Global Affairs Canada, 2018 Spring Reports of the Auditor General of Canada to the Parliament of Canada

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