Risk map finds improved conditions for global filmmakers

Economic and political risks across the globe have created a slightly more favourable environment for filmmakers seeking to film abroad, according to the 2007 Risks in Global Filmmaking Map, produced each year by Aon/ Albert G. Ruben.Of the 207 countries measured, overall risk for filmmakers in 37 countries decreased slightly from 2006 to 2007, according to an Aon release.Risk was calculated on a scale from one to five, illustrating very high, high, medium, moderate and low measures. Risk in nine countries, including Croatia, Haiti, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Tajikistan, increased over the year due mostly to crime, political instability or terrorism concerns.But there are some countries that seem to be developing into attractive filming locales, Chris Palmer, director of risk control for Aon/Albert G. Ruben and author of the risk map, said in a statement.Most notably, Romania and Bulgaria appear to be making concerted efforts to improve their film-related infrastructures in pushes to attract filmmakers, he said.Other risks measured include the threat of inclement weather, the hazard of potential pandemic, and the possibility of terrorism, crime and corruption.