While more than half of travellers are unconcerned about natural disasters disrupting their travel plans, that’s not the case when it comes to manmade trouble. According to the recent Spring 2025 Traveller Sentiment and Safety Survey conducted by Global Rescue, travellers are increasingly factoring geopolitical instability and civil unrest into their trip planning decisions, with a majority saying these risks influence not only where they go but whether they travel at all.
According to the survey:
- More than 85% of survey respondents are at least somewhat concerned about geopolitical instability or civil unrest affecting their travel plans, including 13% who are concerned “a great deal” and 28% “a moderate amount.” (Ed. note: notably the survey was conducted even before Israel-Iran tensions erupted).
- More than 30% have cancelled or changed a trip in the past due to these concerns.
- A striking 88% of respondents say they actively research a destination’s political or social stability before booking a trip.
“These numbers confirm that safety concerns are no longer a secondary consideration – they are front and centre,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies. “Travellers are more aware, more informed and more proactive than ever in assessing the political climate of a destination.”
Government travel advisories also carry weight, with more than two-thirds of respondents reporting that such warnings influence their decisions at least “a moderate amount.” Only 5% said government advisories don’t influence them at all.
In terms of destinations, 76% of travellers said they would avoid locations experiencing ongoing protests or civil unrest, underscoring how real-time developments can rapidly shift demand and travel patterns.
The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine remains a specific concern. When asked whether a ceasefire would make travellers more likely to visit nearby countries such as Poland, Latvia, Czech Republic, or Estonia – all currently listed at the safest Level 1 (“Exercise Normal Precautions”) by the US State Department – a fifth (20%) said yes, while 45% said they have no plans or interest in visiting these countries at all in 2025.
“Even in regions classified as safe, perception matters,” Richards said. “A conflict next door can be enough to alter travel demand across an entire region. It’s why clarity, transparency and timely advisory updates are essential – not just for traveller safety but for economic stability in global tourism markets.”
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