Security Abroad

Expanding a company internationally is a large step for any business. It can be a step forward, but many companies fail to realize the risks that are involved with expanding to certain areas such as the Middle East and Africa. The threats that are present while doing business within the United States are multiplied tenfold when branching out overseas. There are a few things to consider when preparing for this monumental process. What is the environment like in the countries the company is planning on expanding to? What personnel can be trusted to work at the company overseas? How will threats affect business operations? What type of security will be used outside the United States?

The Middle East’s environment is not ideal in the eyes of any security director who is genuinely concerned for their company. War and terrorism is prevalent in many parts of the Middle East. The numbers of deaths in areas such as Syria are on the rise, and the realization of these numbers are stifling. According to news reports, over 33,000 have lost their lives in conflict, and the majority of these people are civilians, innocent bystanders. This is not to include the even larger number wounded, imprisoned, and tortured. This type of activity has caused natives to become homeless or move to another country. This causes a very large road block for a company trying to conduct a successful business in these parts of the world. Location choice will be of the upmost importance. But trying to find an area that has not been war stricken or under a malicious rule will be very difficult and yet another challenge. Not to mention the United States does not have a pleasant bond with some of the countries in the Middle East, most of which we are either currently at war with, or are on the brink of treaties and allies falling through. This does not seem promising for business by any means. But if the company insists on conducting business in this part of the world, it will take reconnaissance and...