Political and financial instability remain a feature of the global business landscape as a result of the recession, according to Aon Risk Services. The company launched its 17th annual Political Risk Map in a global webcast yesterday.

Miles Johnstone, director of Aon's Political Risk team, explained: "Rising risk levels in 2009 have led to a significant volume of credit and political risk claims in international insurance markets, which is driving many of the 18 downgrades in this year's map.

"Aon believes 2010 will see elevated political risk levels continue before an overall tendency for improving global business conditions becomes established. For many companies and across different sectors, including credit and political risk insurance, the business environment remains uncertain when trading with or investing in politically or economically unstable countries."