International travel risk evaluation ensures safety for global business voyagers

In today's globalised world, business travel is an integral part of many companies' strategies. However, travelling to risk regions presents unique challenges that require careful planning and management.

A structured risk assessment is crucial for identifying and managing travel risks. Companies are increasingly endorsing strict guidelines to protect against cyber attacks and ensure the health, safety, and well-being of their business travellers. The ISO 31030:2021 standard offers a comprehensive framework for managing travel risks, providing guidance in complex or hazardous regions.

The ISO standard is not limited to just risk assessment. It also offers valuable insights on emergency planning, medical consultation before departure, and the integration of travel risk management into existing corporate processes. The APAC region, specifically Singapore, China, and Japan, dominates in business travel, making it essential for companies to be well-prepared.

The German economy, with its significant reliance on exports, also benefits from safe and successful business travel. In 2024, the German trade surplus reached around 239 billion euros, underscoring the importance of maintaining a robust protection concept for business travellers.

While the specific German companies using the international security standard ISO 31030:2021 for risk assessment in international business travel are not publicly available, it is clear that the focus is on prevention and emergency planning for employees abroad.

Medical risks, security risks, cultural differences, and psychosocial stressors are typical risks in professional foreign assignments. Medical risks can include tropical or infectious diseases, inadequate emergency care, or managing chronic illnesses abroad. Security risks can include crime, political unrest, or extreme weather events. Cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings, legal peculiarities, or discrimination due to local conditions.

Psychosocial stressors such as isolation, adjustment difficulties, or family challenges become increasingly important in long-term assignments. To address these risks, companies should consider providing security briefings and training in intercultural sensitivity. Emergency contacts, evacuation plans, and repatriation options must be clearly defined and communicated.

In the coming year, the Immigration Index 2025 will reveal the most attractive countries for immigrants, providing valuable insights for companies planning international assignments. International SOS has also published an up-to-date guide on risk assessment for international assignments, offering a valuable resource for businesses navigating the challenges of business travel in risk regions.

As businesses continue to expand globally, the need for a professional protection concept for business travellers will only grow. By focusing on prevention, emergency planning, and understanding the unique risks associated with international travel, companies can ensure the safety and success of their business travellers in risk regions.

International travel risk evaluation ensures safety for global business voyagers