Filmmaking Becomes a Riskier Business

The filmmaking world is becoming riskier, according to the 2005 Risks in Global Filmmaking map published by Aon/Albert G. Ruben. In addition to highlighting terrorism and political risks, the map placed high-risk ratings on 70 countries compared to 55 a year ago.

The Risks in Global Filmmaking map highlights the world’s riskiest regions — showing countries that have long been popular destinations, such as Mexico, Thailand, the Philippines and South Africa, as high risk for filmmakers.

“Ten years ago, there was nowhere in the world a filmmaker wouldn’t go. But, this is no longer the case,” said Chris Palmer, director of risk control for Aon/Albert G. Ruben. “Filmmakers are becoming more aware of the risks they encounter abroad, and in particular, the risks that impact actors, crew and millions of dollars worth of equipment on loan for production.

“Furthermore, we are seeing a gap between perception and reality. Most people cite terrorism as the foremost risk facing them in today’s global environment; however, our map shows that the risks of disease, poor medical care and crime are more prevalent for filmmakers.”

Palmer added, “As the cost of managing risk increases, we can expect to see filmmakers shy away from certain locations and seek alternatives. Eastern Europe, for example, is becoming a popular place because of regional stability and economic benefits.”

The map was created by risk experts at Aon/Albert G. Ruben who measured global risks specific to filmmaking by compiling data from a variety of sources, including U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs, Overseas Security Advisory Council, Diplomatic Security Services, Central Intelligence Agency personnel and publications, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization and other public information. Input from Aon’s global kidnap and ransom, terrorism and political risk experts is also reflected in the map data.

The Risks in Global Filmmaking map measures the following:
• Crime: including theft, robbery, street crime and assault.
• Organized Crime and Corruption: reflecting the likelihood that business will be affected by bribery, extortion or threats from organized crime elements or government corruption.
• Kidnap and Ransom
• Disease Risk: reflecting the prevalence and need for vaccination for
epidemic, communicable and/or tropical diseases.
• Medical Care: measuring the extent to which medical care is available and meets modern standards.

This year’s map also includes specific information about terrorism, including the top 10 terrorist incident locations, and identifies those countries that are experiencing political risk, such as political violence or civil war.

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