Geopolitical Tensions and Digital Risks Shape the Future of Business Travel, Say Safeture and Riskline Experts: New Travel Updates You Need to Know

Published on January 16, 2025

As we move into 2025, travel experts are forecasting that the tourism industry will be heavily influenced by two primary forces: climate change and geopolitical tensions. Safeture, a Swedish leader in travel risk management, and Riskline, a global expert in travel risk analysis, have released their joint “Foresight 2025” report, which highlights the most significant risks travelers will face in the coming year. These developments suggest that businesses, governments, and travelers alike must adapt to ensure safety and stability in the increasingly complex global travel environment.

Rising Geopolitical Tensions and Changing Flight Routes

Geopolitical instability is one of the key factors that will shape travel behavior in 2025. For travelers, particularly those in business, political unrest will continue to affect flight routes and destination choices. Experts warn that ongoing conflicts, such as the Israel-Hamas war and tensions surrounding Ukraine and the Korean Peninsula, could lead to significant disruptions in international travel. These tensions have the potential to affect flight schedules, leading to extended flight times and rerouted flights as airlines attempt to avoid affected airspaces.

For the tourism industry, this means heightened uncertainty for travelers, who may face longer journeys or unexpected delays. Businesses in the travel sector, from airlines to hospitality providers, will need to adjust to these changes, ensuring that they remain responsive to evolving security situations. Additionally, stricter border controls are anticipated in Europe with the implementation of the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which will impose administrative burdens on travelers. Such developments require travel service providers to streamline and automate travel planning processes to maintain customer satisfaction and efficiency.

Climate Change Influences Travel Habits

Climate change, already a topic of intense discussion, is increasingly becoming a key driver of travel choices. Rising temperatures, increased storms, and more frequent floods are influencing where people choose to travel. A notable trend gaining momentum in 2025 is “Coolcationing,” where travelers opt for cooler destinations to avoid the intense heatwaves that have become more prevalent. Similarly, “Last-Chance Tourism,” which involves traveling to destinations that are at risk of disappearing due to climate change, is also on the rise.

For the tourism industry, this presents a challenge and an opportunity. On one hand, travelers are seeking destinations that are more resilient to climate change, which could include colder regions or those with advanced infrastructure for sustainability. On the other hand, destinations at risk of being lost—such as coral reefs or low-lying islands—may see an influx of visitors eager to experience these locations before they are irreparably altered or destroyed. This trend opens new avenues for niche markets within tourism but also places pressure on the travel industry to find ways to balance environmental responsibility with the desires of travelers.

The Digital Transformation of Travel and New Cyber Risks

As digital technologies continue to reshape the travel industry, there are both opportunities and risks that need to be addressed. The use of biometric controls at borders, AI-driven travel planning, and mobile apps that offer real-time updates on travel safety are all designed to enhance convenience for travelers. However, these technological advancements also introduce new vulnerabilities. The potential for cyberattacks, IT outages, and data breaches is an ever-present concern.

For the tourism industry, particularly in business travel, the need to secure digital platforms is more urgent than ever. Safeture’s report suggests that businesses will need to invest heavily in cybersecurity measures to prevent data theft or disruption. Travel agencies, corporate travel departments, and airlines will need to implement robust systems to ensure that their clients’ personal data is protected, while also providing travelers with easy-to-access tools for managing their travel plans in real-time. As more travelers rely on digital tools to plan their trips, the risk of digital disruptions could have a significant impact on the industry.

Health Risks in the Wake of Climate Change

The global health landscape remains a major concern for travelers in 2025. Emerging diseases, such as Mpox and Marburg, continue to pose a threat to public health, as do climate-related health issues like cholera and water shortages in tropical regions. With increasing heatwaves and flooding, travelers in vulnerable areas face a higher risk of contracting climate-sensitive diseases. For business travelers, ensuring the health and safety of employees during international trips is a pressing issue.

In response, companies are likely to prioritize health strategies, especially for employees traveling to regions with emerging health risks. This will likely lead to an increased demand for health monitoring tools, vaccinations, and emergency medical services. The travel industry will need to incorporate these health considerations into their services, ensuring that travelers can safely navigate both emerging health risks and the effects of climate change.

Adapting to the Changing Travel Landscape

The travel industry’s ability to adapt to these risks will be crucial for both leisure and business travelers. Safeture and Riskline emphasize the importance of resilience in travel planning. As the landscape of global travel continues to evolve, both individuals and companies must adopt proactive strategies to navigate geopolitical uncertainties, climate challenges, and health risks. Leveraging real-time information systems, such as those offered by Safeture, can help businesses and travelers make informed decisions and respond effectively to emerging threats.

The collaboration between Safeture and Riskline has highlighted the need for comprehensive risk management systems in travel. These systems allow businesses to better support their employees, offering solutions that integrate safety protocols into everyday operations. For tourists, this translates into safer, more informed journeys, with up-to-date information on flight routes, destination safety, and health risks.

Key Points to Remember

• Geopolitical Tensions: Increased instability in regions like Israel, Ukraine, and Korea is expected to disrupt international travel, affecting flight routes and schedules.
• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and environmental threats are reshaping tourism trends, with increased interest in “Coolcationing” and “Last-Chance Tourism.”
• Digitalization and Cyber Risks: The rise of digital tools in travel introduces new risks related to cybersecurity, requiring businesses to invest in stronger digital protections.
• Health Concerns: Emerging viruses and climate-related health issues will continue to pose challenges for travelers, particularly in tropical and vulnerable regions.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Travel Safely

Looking ahead, the global travel industry faces a complex landscape shaped by climate change, geopolitical instability, and technological advancements. For businesses and travelers alike, adaptability, innovation, and resilience will be the keys to navigating this uncertain terrain. The comprehensive strategies outlined in Safeture’s report offer a roadmap for responding to these challenges, ensuring that the safety and well-being of travelers remain a top priority as we move further into 2025.