The emergence of risks: contributing factors

The publication of this report marks the conclusion of the first phase of IRGC’s ongoing project on emerging risks, which focused on the origins of emerging risks. It is aimed at raising awareness among professionals that risks emerge from a common 'fertile ground' that is cultivated by twelve generic factors. The report describes and illustrates these twelve factors, which have the potential to amplify or attenuate the likelihood of a new risk emerging or the severity of its consequences. Some of these factors may provide ripe targets for risk management measures.

Phase two of the emerging risks project, currently underway, will explore the major obstacles that risk practitioners must overcome in order to improve their own capabilities for understanding, anticipating and responding to emerging risks. IRGC is working towards developing practical guidance for both the public and private sectors on how such obstacles can be overcome.