When it comes to travel safety there are certain countries and cities where you would, in general circumstances, be advised against travelling to. When you travel for work however, sometimes the trip is unavoidable.
Recent terrorist attacks in Algeria, India, Indonesia, Turkey and the United Kingdom threatens the security of travellers to these destinations. In March 2017, a number of countries focused on aviation security in response to concerns of threat, with a continuing and long-standing threat of terrorist activity across the world. Types of attacks to be cautious of include kidnapping, armed attackers, vehicle attacks, bombings, suicide operations, hijackings and other attacks on commercial aircraft and transport.
Based off of travel warnings from July 2017 to present, SafetyIQ has compiled a list of recent areas of high risk. Countries of risk, for both terror threats and natural disaster warnings, include:
Kenya
Due to potential terrorist threats and the high risk of crime throughout the country.
Haiti
Rates of kidnapping, murder and rape rose in 2016. Kidnapping for ransom can affect anyone in Haiti, be aware newly arrived travellers are likely to be targeted. Arrange to have your host or organisation meet you at the airport upon arrive or pre-arranged airport to hotel transfers. Be cautious at banks and ATMs also.
Europe
France, Russia, Sweden and the United Kingdon, Spain and Finland have experienced incidents of terror, which demonstrate that the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS or Da’esh), al-Qa’ida, and their affiliates have the ability to plan and execute attacks in Europe. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets and malls and local government facilities. Exercise vigilance. Please review security information from local officials.
Mexico
Due to activities of criminal organisations such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery in various Mexican states. Gun battles between rival criminal organisations or with Mexican authorities have taken place on streets and in public places in daylight. Whilst the government dedicates resources to protect visitors, and whilst resort areas and tourist destinations generally do not see the same level of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region, it is still recommended to take precautions while travelling to Mexico.
Bangladesh
Due to continuing terrorist groups. Please consider the risks of travel to and through the country.
The Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS), and al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) persist their efforts with two suicide bombing attempts having occurred in March at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
Colombia
Violence is linked to domestic insurgency, narco-trafficking, crime, and kidnapping in some rural and urban areas. Organised political and criminal armed groups are active through much of the country. There may be some restrictions on travel, particularly for government officials.
Philippines
Due to terrorist threats, insurgent activities and kidnappings. Threat of kidnappings-for-ransom of foreigners from terrorist and insurgent groups based in the Sulu Archipelago and in the southern Sulu Sea area.
Egypt
Threats from terrorist and violent political opposition groups, including ISIS. Attacks can occur anywhere within the country, including major metropolitan areas.
Republic of South Sudan
Due to ongoing fighting, intercommunal violence and violent crime throughout the Republic.
Since violent clashes in July 2016, armed conflict has expanded throughout the country, leading to continued instability.
Jordan
The Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS), its affiliates, sympathisers and other violent extremist groups have successfully conducted attacks in Jordan with U.S., Western, and official Jordanian interests remaining priority targets for ISIS and other extremist groups of violence.
Venezuela
Due to social unrest, violent crime and pervasive food and medicine shortages. Limiting travel within Caracas is recommended. Inner-city travel by car during hours of darkness (6pm-6am) is strongly discouraged and potentially even prohibited for certain personnel. The political and security situation is unpredictable.
Somalia
Due to widespread terrorist and criminal activity. Terrorist groups such as ISIS operate with relative impunity throughout large parts of the country, including Mogadishu. Travellers should be aware and cautious of kidnappings, bombings, murder, illegal road blocking, and other violent incidents that are common.
While social media and online platforms are a primary vehicle to support and encourage victims of terror, software such as SafetyIQ can keep you up-to-date on travel risks, events and the whereabouts of your employees and/or colleagues.
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