By: HUB’s EB Global Benefits Team

Companies with interests in the region will be impacted by the conflict as their foreign and local employees experience significant disruption in daily life and work. HUB recommends employers take the following action for employees directly affected by the conflict and consider the needs of employees who have family or other ties to the region.

Evacuation Planning: Companies should maintain close contact with their security and medical evacuation vendor for the most up-to-date information and monitor the evacuation plans of international governments for their citizens.

Work from Home: The health and safety of employees should be paramount, and flexible work arrangements and work from home should be implemented if applicable.

Mental Health in Affected Regions: The ongoing conflict could significantly impact the mental health of individuals living in the affected regions. There is a high prevalence of mental health disorders such as PTSD and depression among those directly exposed to war. Employees with connections, via family and friends, to the region may also experience mental health challenges. Ongoing support from mental health organizations to employees working in these regions and with ties to the region will continue to be a critical benefit.

EAP resources: Employers should encourage employees to reach out to their Employee Assistance Program and any mental health resources offered by their insurers to assist during the conflict, for both employees with ties to the region and employees within the region.

War Risk Exclusions: Most insurance policies contain war exclusion clauses, which exclude coverage for acts of war, including terrorism. This means that any damages or losses caused by war-related events may not be covered by standard insurance policies. Companies should thoroughly review their insurance policies and consider additional coverage if necessary.

How this impacts you

  • Employers should reach out to their carriers for status of medical facilities and access to facilities in the region during conflict
  • Employers should review their insurance policies for exclusions, and consider additional coverage if necessary – especially in crisis management and mental health
  • Employers are encouraged to ensure that their health benefits cover emergency medical care and evacuation

Useful Information

U.S. State Department resources:

If you have any questions, please contact your HUB Advisor. View more updates in our Global Benefits Directory.