Of the 197 countries analysed, several resource-rich nations took up residence in the index’s top 10 spots of regions that saw significant increases in risk over the past six months.

They included the Central African Republic, ranked second most at risk, South Sudan in fourth place, with Somalia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Libya in positions six, seven and eight respectively.

Syria was number one following the recent social and political outbreaks.

Maplecroft noted that the Middle East and north African regions also had a difficult 2013, particularly Iraq, which ranked third and endured its bloodiest year since 2008.

Afghanistan rounded out the top five, while Sudan took ninth place and Pakistan was number 10.

Ukraine experienced the greatest move in the index, dropping 52 places to 35th most at risk due to ongoing violence following the popular uprising in Kiev.

The ratings could have a negative effect as growing concerns of risk turn potential investors away.

A growing economy largely funded by the resource industry was noted to be a major factor affecting the risk of conflict and political unrest.

Nigeria (ranked 15th), which is rich in oil, petroleum and coal, is Africa’s largest economy and rated at “extreme risk” by Maplecroft.

Issues such as kidnapping and piracy have had a negative impact on foreign investment into the nation’s resources industry.

“Violence in the country creates significant challenges for companies in terms of ensuring the safety of employees and facilities, as well as increasing their insurance and security costs,” Maplecroft said.