The world’s most dangerous countries to visit in 2025 have been identified in a new study on security, health, and climate change risks. According to a risk map compiled by International SOS, a security and health risk services company, no country saw a decrease in security risk over the past 12 months.
Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic have been categorised under “extreme” security risk. Other countries included in this category are Yemen, Libya, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine. The study assesses security risks alongside medical and climate-related threats to inform travellers and businesses of potential dangers worldwide.
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Countries classified under “high” security risk, one level below “extreme,” include Mali, Ethiopia, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Pakistan, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, Venezuela, Haiti, and Honduras. The risk ratings reflect the impact of conflict, infectious diseases, and extreme weather events, affecting organisations and businesses operating in these regions.
International SOS has stated that Sudan, Lebanon, Israel, Iraq, and Myanmar have undergone multiple risk rating reviews in 2024 due to ongoing conflicts. The expansion of high or extreme-risk zones in these countries has been attributed to increased conflict intensity and its impact on population centres. Other locations, such as New Caledonia, saw a rise in security risk from low to medium due to social unrest, economic decline, and crime.
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Sally Llewellyn, global security director at International SOS, stated that geopolitical tensions have been a significant factor in increasing security risks. She said that the intensity and expansion of conflicts in locations such as Sudan and Lebanon have led to higher risk ratings. The organisation continues to provide verified information and advice to businesses and organisations operating in high-risk areas, including workforce protection and evacuation support.
The study also highlights changes in medical risks. Bolivia moved from medium to high risk, while Libya’s medical risk rating dropped from extreme to high. Dr Katherine O’Reilly, regional medical director at International SOS, noted that medical risk changes depend on healthcare facility standards, medicine availability, and the prevalence of infections and diseases. She emphasised the importance of data-driven tools in helping organisations maintain their “Duty of Care” responsibilities and ensuring workforce protection.
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Countries assessed as having the lowest security risks include Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Morocco, and Vietnam. The study provides businesses and organisations with a detailed overview of global risk factors, helping them prepare for potential disruptions and safeguard their employees in various regions.
Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.
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