Insurers face increasing civil unrest in the MENA region

According to a study by the Chaucer Group, the number of protests and riots in the MENA region as of 30 April 2021 amounts to 28 458 events. Such events have increased by 45% over one year.

In the Middle East, Lebanon recorded 2 695 incidents during the period under review. In North Africa, Tunisia, South Sudan and Algeria recorded a 100.8%, 38% and 11% increase in the number of demonstrations respectively.

This upsurge is mainly due to the economic and social strains generated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Insurers in the region are preparing for a significant increase in claims. However, some insurance policies may exclude coverage for property damage caused by such unrest.

According to Chaucer, insurance companies are expected to market specific SRCC (Strikes, Riots and Civil Commotion) policies which include coverage for such events.