Homeland Security Leader

HSLEADER recently traveled to Russia and France. Here are some images of their police and security professionals as well as some local landmarks. The visit to Russia was especially eye opening and I came away with a much better understanding of the country, its politics and people.

Any homeland security professional could benefit from a trip to Russia to observe their security standards and practices. Frankly, most American professional would consider the standards somewhat lax. I found visitors could come and go from most major areas and landmarks with no direct scrutiny or security searches. However, there is certainly the sense that if you did cause trouble, you would be pounced on rather quickly by stern looking officers.

Throughout the trip I noticed numerous soldiers, police and security guards. However, most were either unarmed or armed with only a nightstick. There were very few guns to be seen in general.

The gravest security issue I observed was that access to many landmarks, including the St. Basil’s Cathedral (one of the world’s historical treasures), required no magnetometer or hand search. And, while I have no information on the religious, political or financial concerns impacting this decision, it certainly stuck out to me as a serious concern.

On the other hand, security procedures at the airports were solid and efficient. Travelers go through a variety of checks and screenings that provide confidence in their aviation security efforts.

I am delighted to put in a plug for Aeroflot, the Russian airline. Their flight from Moscow to Paris was conducted on a modern plane with a spotless comfortable cabin. The in-flight meal was delicious and provided about three times the food of a comparable American flight. It is sad to say that American airlines could learn a lesson in terms of service and comfort from their Russian counterpart.

Finally, a few notes on the threat of crime, pick-pockets and street thugs while traveling in Russia. In preparing for my trip, I was warned by numerous sources, including several Russians, about safety concerns related to traveling in Russia. Apparently, Moscow has the highest murder rate of any city in the world. I, consequently, took solid measures to protect myself and my valuable, including having a loca escort during most of my trip. However, throughout the trip, including trips on planes, trains, subways, trolleys and buses, while travelling day, night and overnight, I never encountered a single problem or concerning situation. Frankly, I felt as safe in Moscow than I would in any major city in the United States. As is usually the case, everyone creates their own personal security posture by managing how they conduct themselves in public, remaining situationally aware and choosing their environments carefully.

Naturally, I urge any American traveling overseas to take all necessary precautions to fit into their international environment, understand the current risks and to avoid dangerous areas or situations. I just wanted to be clear that at no time during my entire trip did I encounter any negative or threatening situation.

Again, I believe a trip to Russia that includes a trip to an area outside of metropolitan Moscow can be an informative and valuable research and training exercise for any American homeland security professional.

Here are some pictures from the trip…