The geopolitical element and business: a framework for in-house counsel

April 2026International Insurance

Abstract

Geopolitics and geoeconomics have assumed an unprecedented centrality for globally active companies, yet many in-house legal functions remain uncertain about how to respond. This article proposes a practical framework for engaging with what it defines the ‘geopolitical element’: the aggregate of geopolitical and geoeconomic developments that bear upon corporate activity. It maps the strengths and limitations that most legal teams bring to this challenge, examines how the function can adapt its internal organisation and activities, and considers how Legal can position itself within the wider corporate architecture. The article concludes that meaningful progress does not necessarily require radical transformation, but rather measured, deliberate adjustments grounded in a realistic assessment and a clear understanding of business exposure.

Subscribe to reador

The world seems to be getting smaller every day. Technology has improved the speed of business travel and all forms of commercial communication to the point where the global market...Read more

Bruce Fox

Retired Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary, The Main Street America Group, USA

Considerations for In-House Counsel in Navigating CFIUS Issues in Cross-Border Transactions

Internal lawyers play a unique role in transactions involving the acquisition of a business, for both acquirers and targets. Frequently, internal lawyers are involved in the early stages of a...Read more

Paul Giordano

Former General Counsel, Ironshore Inc., USA

Aviva embraces the bear - developing Aviva's new Russian business

When Aviva decided to enter the Russian market, our goal was to establish a top 5 market position over a 5 year period. At that time, we had no local...Read more

The geopolitical element and business: a framework for in-house counsel

Abstract

Related Papers