Geopolitical instability and artificial intelligence risks are among the fastest-rising concerns for directors and officers worldwide, according to new research from Willis and Reed Smith.

The survey found that 59% of directors and officers now view geopolitical risks as very important or extremely important, pushing the issue into the top seven global risks from 15th place last year.

AI concerns also increased, with 56% of respondents globally ranking it as a major risk, rising to 71% in North America. Key concerns include AI-generated errors and misinformation (50%), AI-enabled fraud and social engineering (40%) and the strategic risk of failing to adopt AI (38%). However, only 55% believe their boards have the skills needed to oversee AI implementation effectively.

Health and safety remains a leading concern, particularly in the industrial, transport and energy sectors, where 82% to 89% of respondents cited it as a major risk.

The survey also found that 39% of organisations view third-party exposure and supply chain constraints as their biggest operational resilience challenge. Climate change and diversity, equity and inclusion both fell down the global risk rankings, with only 52% now describing DEI as very important or extremely important, down from 59% in 2025.

Angus Duncan, global directors’ and officers’ coverage specialist at Willis, said: “This year’s survey results confirm what we often hear from clients: corporate decision makers are facing an increasingly complex and layered risk environment. While traditional exposures such as regulatory compliance, health and safety issues and financial management remain front of mind, new risks are being added to the mix.”

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