Political unrest refers to periods of turbulence within the political environment that can impact governance and societal order. It is a significant risk factor and can be the result of many different events, such as political conflict, government instability and economic uncertainty.
The reasons behind the emergence of civil unrest vary from country to country, however, it often stems from dissatisfaction with the current political system. This could be due to corrupt officials using their position for personal gain, or it may be as a result of voters feeling disconnected from the major parties and unable to find an option they are satisfied with.
Other reasons for political unrest include feelings of inequality or injustice between disadvantaged groups and those in power, or growing frustration with the lack of social progress. This can lead to a rise in demands for better access to essential services and higher living standards. It is also possible for economic instability to trigger political unrest, particularly in the event of high unemployment and growing levels of poverty.
While political unrest can be a serious concern for businesses, there are a number of ways they can mitigate the risk and minimise the impact on their operations. This includes building relationships with local stakeholders and community organisations to strengthen their understanding of the issue and defuse tensions before they escalate. Businesses should also be prepared to cope with any physical damage that may occur, and ensure they have plans in place to respond quickly in the event of violence.