AMERICAS
Violent Crime Rates in the Americas
The Americas region has the highest rate of violent crime when compared to any other region in the world. The global average of violent crime is approximately six violent crimes committed per 100,000 people globally. In the Americas, that rate jumps to fifteen violent crimes committed per 100,000 people. There are considerable social and economic factors that contribute to why the region has such high violent crime rates. However, it must be noted that not all country’s police and judicial systems in the region categorize crimes the same way, which in turn, can affect crime rates.
For example, in certain countries, sexual assault and violence against women are considered sexual crimes, making a country’s violent crime rate a lower percentage. This is also the case with larceny and armed robbery where they could be classified under non-violent or violent crime depending on a country. These variances illustrate how there can be some ‘grey areas’ with reliance on statistics alone; and are important to consider when looking at a country’s crime in order to help avoid false conclusions.
Violent crime rates are high in the Caribbean where gun violence and gang activity have increased dramatically within the last decade. Although there are no gun and ammunition manufacturers in the Caribbean, the region is flooded by illegal importers of guns and ammunition, mostly from North America. The influx of guns has resulted in heavily armed gangs competing fiercely with each other over access and control of the local drug markets and trafficking.
Although Central America continues to have a high violent crime rate, the region has seen a major decrease in the level of violence over the past five years. Most of this decrease in violence can be attributed to the “Mano Duro” policies, as witnessed in El Salvador. Police and the criminal justice system have enacted harsh measures to punish gang and criminal activity, going so far as arresting people for merely displaying gang symbols.
Violent crime rates in South America have remained steady, while major decreases in violent crime rates in Colombia and Brazil have been offset by major violent crime increases in Ecuador and Venezuela. The violent crime rate in South America, much like with Central America and the Caribbean, can be attributed to the easy access to firearms and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCO) that compete fiercely over production, control, and transportation of drugs to both the North American and European markets.
The Americas region presents a complex and varied landscape when it comes to violent crime. While the region generally experiences higher rates than the global average, these figures mask important variations across different countries and subregions. Factors such as social and economic conditions, the availability of firearms, and the presence of organized crime also play crucial roles in shaping the violent crime rates. Furthermore, the interpretation of crime statistics is often complicated by differing legal definitions and categorizations across countries. This complexity underscores the importance of nuanced analysis and caution in drawing conclusions from raw crime data. Nonetheless, the ongoing challenges of gang violence, drug trafficking, and firearm proliferation continue to fuel violence in the region, while policy responses demonstrate the delicate balance between improving security and upholding human rights.
MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA (MENA)
Schengen-Style Visa Expected by 2025
The Middle East is set to undergo a significant transformation in its tourism sector with the introduction of a Schengen-style single visa for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Expected to launch between the end of 2024 and 2025, this unified visa will allow seamless travel across the six GCC nations—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait. This development marks a major step in regional integration, enhancing the ease of travel for both residents and visitors, and fostering a more interconnected tourism industry in the Gulf region.
The Schengen-style visa aims to simplify travel across the GCC, much like the original Schengen visa introduced in Europe in 1995. By enabling tourists to travel freely between the member states without needing multiple visas, the GCC hopes to boost its tourism sector significantly. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the GCC’s 2030 tourism strategy, which seeks to elevate the tourism sector’s contribution to the region’s GDP by increasing regional travel and hotel occupancy rates. Announced during the 40th GCC ministers’ meeting in Oman, the visa is expected to be fully implemented by 2025, following the completion of statutory compliance. This strategic move is designed to position the Middle East as a premier global tourism destination, attracting both regional and international tourists.
The new visa system is anticipated to have far-reaching benefits for the GCC’s tourism industry. Travel agents and tour operators are already preparing to capitalize on the simplified travel process by offering comprehensive itineraries that cover multiple GCC countries. These plans are expected to encourage tourists to explore the region without the hassle of obtaining multiple visas, thereby increasing the appeal of the Middle East as a tourist destination. Saudi Arabia’s Vision World Expo 2030 also plays a significant role in this transformation. The Expo aims to showcase Saudi Arabia’s progress under its Vision 2030 plan, emphasizing advancements in technology, culture, sustainability, and economic diversification. This event will serve as a platform for Saudi Arabia to present its future vision to the world, further enhancing its appeal as a tourism and business destination.
The Schengen-style visa is also expected to benefit the hospitality industry in the GCC. With an expected influx of tourists, hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses are likely to see increased demand. This growth in tourism is anticipated to lead to higher hotel occupancy rates, increased revenue for local businesses, and greater opportunities for investment in the region’s tourism infrastructure. The unified visa is not only about boosting tourism but also about strengthening economic ties between the GCC countries. By facilitating easier travel across the region, the visa will promote greater collaboration and investment among the member states, further enhancing the Middle East’s economic integration.
As the Middle East continues to position itself as a top global tourism destination, the new visa agreement is a crucial step in simplifying travel across the region. The initiative is set to attract more visitors, drive economic growth, and create a more integrated and prosperous future for the GCC nations.
ASIA-PACIFIC (APAC)
Security Situation Escalates in Balochistan, Pakistan
In late August, violence in Pakistan’s Balochistan province escalated when more than 70 people were killed as a result of separatist attacks. These recent attacks were the deadliest to take place in Pakistan in recent years. Militant groups, affiliated with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), have been fighting the Pakistani government as well as foreign multinational corporations for years and claimed responsibility for the attack. The BLA stated that 800 of its fighters participated in the most recent round of attacks. According to reports, most attacks took place on roads and highways that were close in proximity to the towns of Quetta and Bela (both in Balochistan province). The BLA claims to only take action against Pakistani security forces, but civilians are often killed or injured.
Balochistan province is abundant in rare earth minerals, and the BLA alleges that the region’s wealth has been stolen from native Baloch’s and sent abroad or to other regions within Pakistan. Attacks by the BLA often target Pakistani security forces or facilities used by multinational corporations; however, civilians frequently die or become injured as a result of these attacks. Additionally, Pakistani security force’s pursuit of the BLA is often heavy handed and amplifies the amount of violence in the region.
As previously mentioned, a primary motivation for the BLA is the expulsion of foreign companies from the region. There is a significant risk of foreign organizations being targeted in attacks by the BLA. However, it should be noted that Chinese firms associated with natural resource extraction and shipping have primarily been targeted. Furthermore, the residences of foreign workers and businesses that serve foreigners have also been targeted. According to the Pakistan Ministry of Interior, there were a total of eight attacks targeting foreigners in Pakistan since 2021, with a number of these attacks taking place in Balochistan.
Additionally, it is worth noting that bouts of conflict between Pakistan and neighboring Iran have occurred in Balochistan, resulting in civilian casualties. In January 2024, Iran carried out a series of airstrikes against alleged anti-Iranian militants in the town of Koh-e-Sabz. These strikes resulted in the deaths of five civilians. Subsequently, Pakistan responded by carrying out strikes of its own in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province. It should be noted that no strikes between Pakistan and Iran have taken place since January 2024. However, as diplomatic tensions increase in the region, there is possibility of further attacks by Iran in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.
The attacks in August, combined with heightened geopolitical tensions, underscore the heightened security environment in Balochistan and highlight the considerable risks foreigners and foreign organizations face. It should be noted that the BLA was founded in 2000 and have been active in Pakistan for 24 years. Since 2000, Pakistani security forces have been unable to stifle the group’s capabilities. Geopolitical developments such as the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021 and the ongoing war in Gaza provide ample conditions for the BLA and Iran to carry out further attacks in Pakistan. Further attacks in the Balochistan province can be expected to take place.
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Foreigners Caught in Nigeria Protests Detained
Depending on the destination and timing of travel, tourists may face protests or political demonstrations during their trips. While many such events proceed peacefully, the possibility of sudden violence cannot be entirely ruled out. The anti-government protests in Nigeria in August 2024 serve as a stark reminder of why safety precautions are critical when traveling abroad, particularly in regions facing political instability.
The Nigerian protests erupted on August 1, 2024, following rising dissatisfaction with the government, driven by economic issues, corruption, and widespread grievances among the populace. What began as a largely peaceful movement quickly spiraled into violent clashes, resulting in 22 fatalities within the first week. This rapid escalation was a sobering reminder that even seemingly peaceful demonstrations can take a dangerous turn.
One of the notable aspects of these protests was the presence of Russian flags, seen at various demonstrations across northern states. The appearance of these flags stirred fears of foreign interference, as they symbolized potential external influences on Nigeria’s internal politics. These concerns were further amplified by reports suggesting that some protestors were actively calling for Russian involvement in domestic matters. The Nigerian government’s reaction to these displays was swift and serious, as participation in such activities could be considered treasonous, a charge punishable by death in Nigeria.
The involvement of foreign nationals in these protests further complicated the situation. On August 5, seven Polish nationals—six students and a teacher participating in a study abroad program—were detained by Nigerian security forces in Kano state. The group was accused of waving Russian flags during a protest, a claim that Polish diplomats vehemently denied. However, the Polish government acknowledged that the group was in the vicinity of a protest, which may have contributed to their detention.
Nigerian authorities were already cracking down on those involved with the production and distribution of Russian flags, arresting tailors and suppliers. Although no concrete evidence was presented to support the allegations against the Polish nationals, their proximity to the protests and the heightened sensitivity around foreign involvement led to their continued detention. The incident became an international diplomatic issue, with Polish officials working behind the scenes to secure their release.
The situation remained unresolved for several weeks, with the group’s fate uncertain until August 28, when the Polish foreign ministry confirmed their release. However, no details were provided about their return to Poland, and Nigerian authorities offered no official statement regarding the case. In the meantime, the crackdown on foreign involvement in the protests continued, with Nigerian courts issuing an arrest warrant for a British national alleged to be one of the main organizers of the August protests. Authorities believe he had fled the country, and they are currently working with Interpol to facilitate his apprehension.
This incident highlights the increased risks travelers may face when they find themselves near politically charged events, such as protests. The detention of foreign nationals, even if they are not actively participating, can occur due to misunderstandings or heightened government scrutiny. Additionally, the risk of arbitrary detention increases when governments are on high alert for foreign involvement or interference, as seen in this case.
EUROPE AND THE COMMONWEALTH OF INDEPENDENT STATES (ECIS)
Racial Threats in Azerbaijan
Racism and xenophobia in Azerbaijan have been widely reported, affecting both citizens and travelers. Harassment and attacks, particularly targeting ethnic groups, are often directed against Armenians due to the long-standing conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Other minority groups, such as Lezgins, Talysh, and Russians, have also been affected. These ethnic minorities report discrimination in employment, education, and other areas of public life. Xenophobic attitudes extend to foreign nationals, especially those from African and South Asian countries, or people perceived to be from these regions. The capital, Baku, has become a common destination for international students, and with the increase of students comes an increase in reports, particularly from African and South Asian students, of harassment, verbal abuse, and challenges in accessing housing due to their race or nationality.
It’s important to note that individuals who do not belong to a targeted ethnic or religious group can still face hostility based on misidentification. This underscores the arbitrary and harmful nature of racial prejudice and demonstrates the wide-reaching impact of xenophobia. Anti-Armenian sentiment is pervasive in Azerbaijani society, media, and politics. School textbooks have reportedly depicted Armenians through negative stereotypes, while state-run media frequently portrays Armenians as enemies or aggressors. Historically, Armenians faced violent pogroms in Azerbaijan, particularly during the late 1980s and early 1990s, when they were targeted, beaten, killed, and had their homes and businesses destroyed. The recent 2023 military operation in the Nagorno-Karabakh region saw a rise in anti-Armenian sentiment within Azerbaijan and exacerbated ongoing hostilities between the two countries. This deep-seated animosity continues to shape Azerbaijan’s societal attitudes toward Armenians and impacts the broader relationship between the two nations.
The ongoing anti-Armenian rhetoric in both Azerbaijani society and the government remains a significant concern, affecting not only Armenians, but also social activists and individuals who may be perceived as Armenian or of another minority group. This climate of hostility presents a continuous threat to these groups, even as the government denies the existence of systemic racism. Official statements highlight a national goal of multiculturalism and tolerance; however, critics argue that the government’s rhetoric often contributes to the problem rather than alleviating it.
Azerbaijan, despite its internal challenges, is focused on promoting stability and attracting international visitors. The capital city of Baku is positioning itself as a host for major global events, including the upcoming Baku Climate Action Week, from September 30 to October 4, 2024; and COP29, scheduled for November 11 to 22, 2024. The COP29 will not only bring in top diplomatic and world leaders, but also present a pivotal chance in the fight against climate change. Additionally, Azerbaijan has been increasingly involved in hosting major football tournaments, drawing in thousands of travelers. Football matches have a risk of increasing nationalistic views and actions that may heighten xenophobic acts.
As the country becomes an increasingly popular travel destination, it is important for travelers to remain aware of the ongoing prejudices and potential threats related to race, religion, or cultural and political discourse. Understanding the country’s social landscape is essential for mitigating travel risks and maintaining situational awareness.
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