The International Business Guide is an excellent resource.  It lists services such as CountryWatch Country Reviews (from Business Source Complete) and The CIA World Factbook, both of which provide solid information on the histories, demographics, governments, etc. of countries around the world.

It is also worthwhile visiting websites of groups like Freedom House.  These organizations report on political freedom, freedom of the press, rule of law, and other factors that may affect the business climate in a country.