In its new study, the International SOS-one of the leaders in global security and health risk services-shows off the most perilous countries to visit in 2025. They mention critical aspects in terms of security, health, and climatic changes pertinent for travelers as well as for businesses. What's more appalling is that the security risk did not decrease at all in any single country over the last year.
Countries with "extreme" security risks in 2025
Certain countries have been identified as the most high-risk destinations in 2025. Based on the International SOS risk map, the extreme risk states include the following: Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic. High-risk categories of countries include: Yemen, Libya, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine.
Countries at High Risk to Watch
Countries with a "high" security risk, one step below the "extreme" category, are:
- Mali
- Ethiopia
- Nigeria
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Pakistan
- Myanmar
- Papua New Guinea
- Venezuela
- Haiti
- Honduras
These countries are at a higher security risk and are dangerous for travelers and businesses.
Key Elements of Risk Assessment
The International SOS annual risk map categorizes countries across several factors including security threats, medical risks, climate change vulnerabilities, and mental health concerns. The goal is to equip the traveler and the organizations with further insight into the potential dangers the world has to offer.
Risk assessments are based on an analysis of the impact from disruptive events like:
Armed conflicts and political unrest
- Infectious diseases which are widespread in the population
- Extreme weather events driven by climate change
Categories and Scoring of Risks
Countries are rated on a five-tier scale for each category:
- Security Risk: Insignificantly dangerous to extremely dangerous
- Medical Risk: Low to Very High
For example, the United Kingdom received a "low" rating across all categories, except for mental health, where 15-17.5% of its population was identified as experiencing mental health issues – the second-highest score in this category.
Conflict and Security Trends in 2024
The report also highlights regions where security risks have intensified due to ongoing conflicts in 2024, such as:
- Israel's war on Gaza
- Ongoing increased violence in Sudan
These have seriously altered the risk environment globally, and it is only prudent to be more informed before heading out on a trip to these high-risk countries.
Conclusion
The International SOS 2025 risk map is a resource for businesses and travelers alike, including findings of security, health, and environmental risks that people may face around the world. Understanding these risks supports traveling or managing international operations in the safest and best-prepared way.