Release
Cote d’Ivoire closed its land, air and sea border crossings over the weekend following a gun attack against an army post along the border with Ghana. The incident took place on the same day as attacks against police stations in Abidjan, indicating the presence of a continuing domestic threat in the country.
As well as the risk of physical violence, business travelers in the country also face the prospect of complete travel disruption as a result of border closures.
AKE is monitoring several current areas of risk for business travelers around the world. In addition to the more familiar violent hotspots such as Iraq and Afghanistan, there are numerous emerging markets around the world where violence and unrest is often uncommon. Nonetheless, the risk of escalation and subsequent disruption to travel plans remains a concern.
For example, the ongoing controversy regarding an anti-Islamic video published online in the US continues to provoke anti-American demonstrations in many parts of the Islamic world, posing a concern for numerous business travelers.
In India the government has lost a coalition partner and continues to push ahead with plans to cut diesel subsidies and open the retail sector to foreign investment. This is likely to prompt demonstrations in city centers which could have a disruptive affect on travel over the coming months.
Security conditions are deteriorating in the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. Militant activity is increasing in what would otherwise be a popular region with tourists.
In South Africa a reported wage deal agreed by Lonmin with its mining staff sets a precedent for major pay increases as the result of strike action staged outside the usual union channels. This may therefore foment more unrest in certain parts of the country.
AKE recommends that organizations review their risk exposure around the world, stay in regular communications with employees and continue to review safety measures.
Make sure you visit and click ‘Like’ on our Facebook page to receive even more news and updates from Alternative Energy Africa.