Interview : Alain Juillet, Chairman of the Club of Corporate Security Directors (CDSE)

Has the Karachi jurisprudence had a major impact on travel in sensitive areas?

Alain Juillet - Unquestionably. The risk has reduced considerably over the last three to five years. Companies have realised that the law makes them responsible for the safety of professionals who leave the country, whether they are expatriates and their families or employees on assignment. Large companies have now put in place comprehensive security procedures. Their staff are made aware of the risks, but also of the need to keep the company informed of their movements, particularly in high-risk areas.

Are SMEs equally sensitive to this issue?

A. J. - It's more difficult, but progress is being made. The attacks have made us realise that risk is everywhere. I still see companies sending women alone to the Central African Republic to do business, in a rather crazy way. Fortunately, this exposure to risk is diminishing. The French government is working hard to raise awareness through the Quai d'Orsay. On the ground, the economic expansion agencies also guide them. We're also thinking about creating a structure for SMEs alongside our club, which brings together around a hundred major French companies and large SMEs in strategic sectors such as defence. The heads of SMEs are exceptional people, but they don't always have the expertise or knowledge of seasoned security directors.

What is the role of the CDSE?

A. J. - We have a pilot role. Anyone who wants to work in Kabul can count on our support, for example through the exchange of experience between security managers who know the terrain well. In the event of a crisis, we work closely with the Quai d'Orsay and the Ministries of Defence and the Interior to understand the issues and keep our members informed.

Boko Haram, AQIM, Daech: terrorism is the most talked-about risk. But is it the most important?

A. J. - If it exists, it's still limited. The greatest risk is of business travellers falling into the hands of brigands or belligerents, or being the object of social unrest where foreigners are attacked. Travellers are stranded on the spot and companies have to find ways of recovering them.