Geopolitical conflict is increasingly influencing corporate decision-making and disrupting business operations, with organisations facing growing pressure around employee safety, travel, cyber security and supply chains, according to new research from Healix.

The company’s 2027 Risk Radar Report found that 58% of global organisations surveyed had experienced moderate, significant or ongoing pressure to take a position or make decisions in response to geopolitical conflict.

The findings highlight the extent to which geopolitical risks are extending beyond the regions directly affected by conflict. Some 92% of organisations operate in, or send employees to, areas experiencing geopolitical instability, while almost two-thirds reported noticeable, major, severe or paralysing operational impacts from geopolitical conflict over the past two years.

Travel disruption and restrictions were identified as the leading potential impact over the next 12 months, cited by 18% of respondents. Cyber threats followed at 16%, rising energy prices at 15% and supply-chain disruption at 14%.

The effects are already being felt across workforces. Over the past year, 48% of organisations experienced travel disruption, 36% reported employee safety incidents and 32% carried out employee evacuations or relocations. Healix said the findings demonstrate how geopolitical instability can create business continuity challenges through indirect effects, including disruption to travel, increased cyber threats, supply-chain pressures and rising operating costs.

James Henderson, chief executive of Healix International, said: “Geopolitical events no longer stop at national borders. They now reach into boardrooms, workplaces and supply chains around the world. As the line between geopolitics and business continues to blur, organisations need the visibility, intelligence and confidence to make decisions under pressure. Understanding exposure, anticipating potential impacts and having the right intelligence and processes in place can make the difference between disruption and resilience.”

The report highlights the need for organisations to assess their exposure to geopolitical developments and consider the implications for business continuity, operational resilience and employee duty of care.

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