Risk ratings | Worldwide Risk | Location risk changes

Level: Notice
Location: Maldives
Category: Civil unrest, Key date

The travel risk rating for the capital Male and Addu City (Addu atoll) has been lowered from MEDIUM to LOW following a comprehensive review of the security environment. The change reflects a decline in social unrest and political gatherings following the presidential and parliamentary elections in 2023-24. Travel to the Maldives can continue with standard security precautions.

Advice

• Travel to the Maldives can continue with standard security precautions.
• Take basic security precautions to mitigate the risks of petty and street crime. If accosted, do not resist or antagonise your assailant.
• There is potential for isolated attacks by Islamist extremists targeting government or Western interests. Report suspicious behaviour or suspect packages to the authorities.
• Dress conservatively outside holiday resort areas and respect sensibilities associated with the observance of Muslim religious duties and cultural customs.
• Monitor our Maldives alerts for further updates.

More detail

Significant political mobilisation was reported during the presidential and parliamentary elections in September 2023 and April 2024, respectively, justifying the earlier MEDIUM risk rating for Male and Addu City. During this period, there was also an increase in anti-India protests which targeted the previous government’s perceived close ties with India. Political gatherings have reportedly declined, and protests now occur sporadically and pass off peacefully.

Level: Advisory
Location: Myanmar
Category: Conflict, Election, State of emergency

We have raised Myanmar’s risk rating from HIGH to EXTREME due to the expansion of conflict zones and the credible risk of further violence due to the planned elections. As per independent estimates, the military government controls around 20% of the territory, and we expect further fighting in the areas under the state of emergency (SoE). Without meaningful dialogue with the ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) and the National Unity Government (NUG), the symbolic elections will lead to further conflict over the coming months. Business-critical travel to the HIGH-risk cities of Mandalay (Mandalay region), the capital Naypyitaw and Yangon (Yangon region), can continue.

Advice

Inbound business travellers

• Defer all travel to the EXTREME-risk conflict-impacted areas of Myanmar and regions affected by the 28 March 2025 earthquake. These include Bago, Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Mon, Rakhine states, Sagaing and Tanintharyi regions, and parts of Ayeyarwady, Magway (except Magway city), Mandalay (except Mandalay city) regions and Shan state.
• Business-critical travel to urban centres in EXTREME risk areas served by operational airports listed below is possible with stringent security precautions and logistics arrangements, such as permits, and updates on the status of critical infrastructure.

• Kachin state: Myitkyina (MYT) and Putao (PBU) airports
• Mandalay region: Nyaung-U Airport (NYU)
• Mon state: Mawlyamine Airport (MNU)
• Shan state: Heho (HEH), Keng Tong (KET) and Tachileik (THL) airports
• Tanintharyi region: Bokpyin (VBP), Dawei (TVY), Kawthaung (KAW) and Myeik (MGZ) airports

• Business-critical travel to HIGH-risk areas, including Naypyitaw Union Territory and parts of Ayeyarwady, Magway (including Magway city), Mandalay (including Mandalay city) and Yangon (including Yangon city) regions, and Shan state, is possible. Conduct a comprehensive profile- and itinerary-specific assessment, and a briefing on the security environment.
• Account for limited consular support and challenges associated with a short-notice deterioration in the security and logistics environment. Those with a limited risk tolerance should limit travel to city centres/downtown areas and avoid peripheral neighbourhoods. Formal security training is recommended for long-term deployments.
• Be prepared for short-notice disruption to telecommunications. Travellers in a group should opt for different network operators in case of outages. Certain social media and messaging platforms are restricted, and the use of virtual private network is officially prohibited. Satellite phones require prior permission from the authorities.
• Arrange accommodation at internationally branded business-class hotels or other secure compounds, located away from known trouble spots, and with stringent security arrangements and adequate infrastructure (including backup generators). Hotels need specific permits to accept foreign nationals as guests.
• Maintain a low profile and avoid travelling in vehicles with logos affiliated to any organisation.

In-country workforce

• Avoid all travel to and through Bago, Magway (except Magway city), Mandalay (except Mandalay city) and Sagaing regions, and Shan state due to the infrastructure damage caused by the 28 March 2025 earthquake.
• Foreign nationals and business travellers determined to remain in or travel to EXTREME risk locations should routinely conduct an individual risk assessment. Ensure access to sufficient stocks of water, food and other essential commodities to be able to stand fast for a prolonged period should the situation require. Have clear triggers to relocate and plan for road/air movement to the nearest urban centre with onwards flight to Yangon.
• We recommend inter-city air travel for HIGH-risk areas. Essential travel is possible along the Yangon-Naypyitaw-Mandalay Expressway (toll road), with the caveat to curtail movement at short notice in case of clashes en route. Check travel permit requirements and carry identification documents and valid visas for checkpoints along the expressway and at the city entry/exit points. During the trip, maintain professional 24-hour security support to ensure access to the latest trip-specific security assessments, operations-room tracking, reliable communications and immediate access to emergency support. Identify safe havens for relocation.
• Violence can occur with little warning, even in central areas of major urban centres. Installations affiliated to the military government, including military, police and local administrative buildings and personnel, are commonly targeted. Minimise time spent in the vicinity of these locations. In the event of an emergency or being involved in a security incident, contact your embassy, International SOS Assistance Centre and security provider for support. Your diplomatic representation may be located in neighbouring countries.
• Ensure that communications devices are fully charged, regularly tested, and have emergency numbers pre-programmed. Always keep a list of emergency contacts, both electronically and on paper. In case you do not have access to alternative means of communication, check your organisation's incident management protocol.
• Avoid engaging in conversations on sensitive topics such as the current political and security situation. Ensure that electronic devices do not contain sensitive material. Do not take photographs of the security forces or government buildings and installations. The police may check and conduct searches on electronic devices for any such material.

More detail

Impact

The security environment remains fluid and unpredictable in Myanmar. The EAOs and the NUG-back People’s Defence Forces (PDF) groups have boycotted the elections. They are continuously trying to expand their area of influence and attacking the military’s supply lines.

The suspension of the nationwide SoE changes little on the ground. On 31 July, the government imposed a 90-day SoE and martial law in 63 townships, of which, reportedly 46 are under complete control of EAOs and the NUG. While the military controls 16 townships, but the rural areas are controlled by rebel groups. Under the martial law, curfews and travel restrictions will be in effect in these townships.

Outlook

Military action

The NUG and EAOs will continue their armed struggle in their areas of influence. The reimposition of the SoE indicates that the military will push for a fresh offensive around the 63 townships. Security operations will see on-ground clashes and the military use indiscriminate airstrikes, which pose considerable incidental risks to civilians. The expansion of conflict zones reduces the manoeuvrability for workforce, goods and services, impacting evacuation options as well as organisations’ capabilities to ensure sufficient situational awareness.

Additionally, we expect the humanitarian crisis to worsen in rebel-held areas as the military will cut the supply of essentials and redirect resources such as fuel and food rations for their troops.

Rule of law

We also expect more security operations and arrests of political activists in urban centres and the 63 townships under the SoE. The NSPC has suspended key privacy laws and enacted the election protection law to deter dissent against the electoral process and protect associated personnel. The suspension gives the authorities power to raid properties, conduct arrests and carry out surveillance of citizens. They have also announced prison sentences for speeches or actions which aim to obstruct or disrupt the election or harm election-related personnel.

Some indicators for escalation for in-country workforce are:

• The rebel forces take over Mandalay city and the garrison town of Pyinoolwin (Mandalay region).
• The military loses control of strategic facilities close to Naypyitaw or Yangon.
• Violent protests occur against the military/election in Mandalay, Naypyitaw or Yangon as part of an organised rebellion.
• Increased surveillance of local and foreign organisations impacts their operations.
• Military conscription is implemented forcibly in major urban centres and a strong resistance develops against the measure.
• Complete breakdown of law and order in urban centres.
• Cash flow and supply of essentials are impacted in Yangon.

Context

The military government, led by the National Defence and Security Council, dissolved the State Administration Council and revoked the nationwide SoE on 31 July. They established the NSPC, led by Prime Minister U Nyo Saw and chaired by President Min Aung Hlaing, to ensure the conduct of the elections. The Union Election Commission has announced elections in 267 of 330 townships, including in rebel-held areas, in phases from December 2025 through January 2026.

Assessment

Assessment

The risk rating for Myanmar has been escalated after International SOS conducted a comprehensive analysis of the security and political environment. The military is using the elections as a tool to seek legitimacy even as it has been losing territory, manpower and weapons. We expect to see an expansion of the EXTREME-risk conflict zones as fighting spread to the adjoining HIGH-risk areas.

Yangon city

Yangon has remained relatively unaffected by the fighting as the military has access to manpower and resources to fortify and defend the region. Additionally, there is a buffer zone between the EAO-held autonomous regions and the city, so they and their affiliated PDF groups do not have the capability to carry out a co-ordinated urban warfare campaign.

Elections

If the current trajectory of the conflict holds and the elections are conducted, we do not foresee a change in our risk rating in the medium-term. The security environment will worsen once the campaign period starts, likely around October. Without a political dialogue with the EAOs and the NUG and the lack of a ceasefire prior to the campaign period, attacks will continue. These will target candidates and their offices, election workers and polling stations, even in urban centres.

The military has banned major political parties and jailed their senior leaders. Ultranationalist and senior military leaders will become embedded in the government, which will worsen prospects of talks with the EAOs and the NUG. The legitimacy of the ‘democratic’ government will not be established, with the country bifurcated between military-controlled enclaves and rebel-administered areas.

Level: Advisory
Location: Mali
Category: Terrorism, Protest/Rally, Police/security operation, Violent crime, Curfew

We have raised the risk rating to EXTREME for certain HIGH-risk areas due to the expansion and entrenchment of militant groups in Mali. These include Segou and Sikasso regions, areas north of the RN1 motorway in Kayes region and areas within 75 miles (120km) of the Mauritania border in Koulikoro region. Militant activity and attacks are likely to persist and further expand throughout the country’s EXTREME-risk areas over the coming months, with militant groups taking advantage of the declining capabilities of the Malian authorities. We advise against all travel to these locations due to the significant threat posed by militancy.

Advice

• Defer all travel to EXTREME-risk areas of Mali due to the credible risk of militancy.
• Defer non-essential travel to HIGH-risk areas. Essential travel requires a comprehensive, profile-specific pre-trip risk assessment and professional 24/7 security support, including access to secure accommodation, a viable evacuation and stand-fast plan, and clearly defined escalation triggers for evacuation and suspension of movement.
• Travel to the capital Bamako, which is rated as MEDIUM risk, can proceed with precautions. Ensure that you are briefed on the latest political developments due to the ongoing risk of militancy and political instability.
• Conduct internal travel by air where possible. Road journeys to HIGH-risk areas should be carried out with armed escort and convoy support. Register your journey with the relevant local (regional and district level) authorities who may provide an additional army escort. Ensure all vehicles are four-wheel drive (4WD) and the driver has received security and basic first aid training. Vehicles should be equipped with a full medical kit, reliable communications systems and spare tyres, as well as sufficient water, food and petrol to complete your journey.
• Plan overland journeys accounting for disruption due to fuel shortages. Refill tanks whenever possible to ensure sufficient supplies for journeys. Strictly limit movement to daylight hours only. Journey management protocols for overland travel should include regular check-ins, vehicle tracking and varied daily routines. All moves should be strictly conducted during daylight hours.
• Register with your embassy and all available warden networks.
• Carry your passport and other important documentation on your person at all times for use at roadblocks and during stop-checks. Comply with security force directives and treat any security force personnel you encounter with patience and respect.
• Take precautions against crime. Avoid carrying and displaying valuables, lock doors and windows at all times during road movements and avoid all travel on foot after dark.
• There is a credible risk of militancy. Minimise time spent outside government buildings, military installations and venues frequented by foreign nationals, including diplomatic missions and popular entertainment venues.
• Workforce sites and facilities should be professionally secured, with at minimum an effective double-door system to prevent forcible vehicle ingress, a metal detector and bag searches.
• Expect unscheduled disruption to essential services (including electricity, water, internet and mobile connectivity). Keep all communication devices charged and extra batteries due to frequent electricity outages.
• Ensure that you have provisions to be able to stand fast for at least 72 hours in urban centres and up to seven days in remote areas. Such provisions should include food, water, fuel, medicine and cash.
• Do not photograph military and government personnel or buildings, or other sensitive locations, such as airports and bridges, without written permission from the authorities.
• Dress conservatively in loose-fitting clothing covering the chest, shoulders, arms and legs. Respect local and cultural sensibilities.
• Monitor International SOS alerts for updates.

More detail

Impact

Militant attacks on military instillations and the besieging of civilian-populated towns have continued to expand in Segou and Sikasso, areas north of the RN1 motorway in Kayes and areas within 75 miles (120km) of the Mauritania border in Koulikoro. Curfews are regularly imposed in these regions in response to increased militancy and consequent counter-terrorism operations by the Malian authorities.

Outlook

Groups affiliated to the al-Qaida-aligned Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) and the extremist Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) group have maintained activity in entrenched zones while aiming to expand co-ordinated activities throughout EXTREME-risk areas. Militants are likely to capitalise on reduced government capabilities and dissatisfaction within the military. Further efforts by them to control land and carry out attacks on the security forces and civilians are likely in EXTREME-risk areas. At the same time, anti-militancy operations will continue to be conducted in these locations. However, due to limited resourcing and the prioritisation of security in MEDIUM-risk and HIGH-risk urban areas, the security forces will struggle to maintain control and efficiently reduce the militant threat.

We expect militant groups to target foreign nationals and industries as entrenchment and expansion persists throughout EXTREME-risk areas. Militants will use propaganda, including circulation of reports of attacks on foreign nationals, to drive incidences of further such attacks. Kidnaps and ransoms of foreign nationals are likely to increase as militancy continues to expand, and lack of security coherence is liable to jeopardise efforts to reduce attacks against foreign assets.

Context

ISGS, JNIM

Mali’s security environment has experienced a significant deterioration since the withdrawal of French forces in 2022 following the 2021 coup. Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger also withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States regional bloc on 29 January. This has likely deepened the security issues in Mali by negatively impacting joint-regional efforts aimed at combatting and mitigating terrorism threats.

Assessment

Assessment

Due to an inability of the Malian authorities to mitigate militant activity in EXTREME-risk areas, HIGH- and MEDIUM-risk locations are likely to see increased attempts at militant expansion over the coming months. However, the authorities will continue to conduct anti-militancy operations in EXTREME-risk areas and concentrate counter-terrorism efforts in populated urban centres across HIGH- and MEDIUM-risk locations. Militant activity is likely to rise over the same period on the outskirts of HIGH- and MEDIUM-risk locations and in areas connecting main routes.

Anti-government sentiment is likely to grow across Mali as militant activity continues to expand. A weakening security environment will prevent the authorities from effectively responding to militant activity and assisting civilian communities. Militant groups will exploit public discontent by attempting to assume leadership over affected communities. Public frustration over forced displacement and regional migration may in turn fuel demonstrations. Meanwhile, rising pressure and casualties among the security forces are likely to spark dissatisfaction within the military, especially as attacks on military personnel and infrastructure continue.

Level: Advisory
Location: Syria
Category: Conflict

We have reduced the security risk rating for several locations across the country from EXTREME to HIGH following a comprehensive risk assessment. The areas now rated as HIGH risk are the capital Damascus and the cities of Aleppo (Aleppo governorate), Hama (Hama governorate), Homs (Homs governorate) and Idlib (Idlib governorate). The rest of the country, including rural areas outside these cities, remain rated as EXTREME. We have also lowered our evacuation level for Syria from EVACUATE: FULL EVACUATION to EVACUATE: NON-ESSENTIAL WORKFORCE.

Advice

• Essential travel to Damascus and the cities of Aleppo, Hama, Homs and Idlib may be possible in compliance with any regulatory restrictions applicable to travellers and their organisation. If in doubt, consider obtaining your own independent legal advice before undertaking any travel to Syria. Prior to travel:
  • Conduct an itinerary-, location- and profile-specific security risk assessment.
  • Reconfirm eligibility to enter the country and arrange necessary visas and permits.
  • Ensure travellers are briefed on local cultural and religious sensitivities so that they are able to navigate the local environment.
  • Ensure access to trusted local contacts or a security provider able to provide locally sourced, up-to-date information and assist with transport, accommodation, any permits and other necessities while in the country.
  • Prepare a detailed journey management plan in co-ordination with local contacts or a security provider.
  • Account for the potential to be stranded in the country for a prolonged period of time in the event of a sudden deterioration of the security environment.
• Defer all travel to the rest of the country due to the prevailing instability.

Domestic travel recommendations

• Due to the fact that domestic air travel options remain limited, travellers should plan for overland movement.
• Any overland movement should be closely co-ordinated with trusted local contacts or a security provider to ensure the feasibility of movement, confirm the status of routes and help navigate checkpoints and any other encounters with local security forces.
• Only use major highways for overland movement between the cities rated as HIGH risk. These include Highway M5 connecting Damascus with the border with Jordan to the south and with Aleppo, Hama and Homs to the north; Highway 1 connecting Damascus with the border with Lebanon; Highway M1 connecting Homs and Tartus (Tartus governorate); and Highway M4 leading to Latakia (Latakia governorate).
• Avoid travelling to rural areas or using secondary or other minor roads.
• Avoid overland travel to the rest of the country.
• All journeys should be conducted during daylight hours only.
• Ensure you have adequate essential supplies (fuel, food, water, cash and medication) for any potential land journeys.
• Ensure you have access to reliable backup methods of communication in case of disruption to internet services.
• Consider establishing a system of check-in calls to confirm travellers’ safety during the trip. Appoint at least one other person in your organisation to be the emergency point of contact for all urgent communication between the organisation and the travellers.
• This advice is not exhaustive. Refer to our Syria country page or reach out to the nearest Assistance Centre for more detailed advice.

More detail

Impact

Damascus

The city of Damascus was rated as HIGH risk even prior to the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led takeover of the government in December 2024. Its security environment has become more stable compared to the rest of the country.

In the months following the takeover, International SOS conducted a series of trips to the country to re-evaluate local security and operational environment, as well as to assess the quality of medical infrastructure. The outcome of this process was the decision to revisit the risk rating of the cities of Aleppo, Hama, Homs and Idlib.

Aleppo, Hama, Homs and Idlib

These cities are less prone to security incidents compared to the rest of the country, which is rated as EXTREME risk, likely due to more robust government control and a higher security presence. Since December 2024, they have not experienced major militant attacks, airstrikes or significant protracted flare-ups of hostilities between domestic actors that would destabilise the local security environment.

Nevertheless, crime, widespread proliferation of weapons, security gaps in rural areas surrounding these cities and the presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain a concern there. Similar to Damascus, the outskirts of these cities are more prone to security incidents and associated volatility in comparison to the central parts.

There is also a range of operational challenges associated with travel to these cities, as in most cases, it would require overland movement through EXTREME-risk areas. These include ensuring robust security support, including transport and accommodation, and accessing medical assistance in the event of an emergency, as well as evacuation planning.

Outlook

Although active conflict across the country has ended, the security situation in many parts of the country remains volatile. The factors that drive that volatility include a security vacuum in parts of the country, including outside major urban centres such as Aleppo, Damascus, Hama, Homs and Idlib; a fractured and overstretched security apparatus; landmine contamination; widespread proliferation of weapons; and the presence of a variety of armed actors that continue to exist outside the state’s control.

These actors include domestic entities such as various ethnic- and sectarian-based militias and anti-government and extremist groups. There are also foreign actors, including Israel and Turkey, that maintain a military presence in Syria and whose posture and strategic interests continue to have significant influence on the country’s stability.

As the result of these wide range of issues, large parts of the country remain exposed to high levels of crime, the risk of terrorist attacks and airstrikes, as well as sudden flare-ups of violence. These could be triggered by a range of issues, including periodic surges of sectarian violence, such as clashes that broke out in Sweida governorate on 13 July and left dozens of casualties; flare-ups of hostilities between government security forces and forces allied to the former government, as witnessed in Latakia (Latakia governorate) and Tartus (Tartus governorate) in March; and sporadic targeted attacks, such as the June suicide attack on a church in Damascus. More broadly, security incidents whose perpetrators are often difficult to identify remain prevalent across the country, particularly outside major urban centres, due to gaps in security there.

These factors underline the complexity and volatility of Syria’s security environment and drive the country’s overall EXTREME risk rating, with the exception of the cities of Aleppo, Damascus, Hama, Homs and Idlib.

Context

The situation in Syria has been evolving since the HTS-led takeover in December 2024. Diplomatic re-engagement with a range of regional and international actors and sanctions relief accompanied by a greater access to international aid and investments all have marked a positive development for the country’s stability. Notably, in July, the US started the process of reversing sanctions on Syria, including the revoking of HTS’ Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO) designation. Nonetheless, the security environment, particularly outside major urban centres, remains volatile and will require further effort and strengthening of state capacity and local security apparatus to mitigate the risks posed by crime, ethnic and sectarian tensions, the presence and activities of various armed groups, and militancy there.

Assessment

In the coming months, domestic stability will continue to hinge upon a range of factors. These include the government’s ability to effectively manage incoming aid and investments to start rebuilding the country and address Syria’s profound economic crisis; successfully integrate various groups, including the Syrian Democratic Forces, into state institutions; and consolidate its control over the country without provoking fresh flare-ups of violence. It will also depend more broadly on the government’s domestic policies affecting personal freedoms, media freedom and the rights of the ethnic and religious minorities.

The latter, in particular, would be important for mending international relations, ensuring a continuous flow of aid and avoiding fresh sanctions. Such measures that are appealing to the international community may exacerbate friction within the state by prompting criticism or pushback from the more conservative elements in the government. Syria’s foreign policy will also have implications for its domestic stability. Following de-escalation of Israel-Iran hostilities in June, there appears to be a growing intent on the Israeli side to promote normalisation of ties with countries across the region. In this context, the Syrian government may come under pressure from both Israel and the US, with the latter leveraging recent sanctions relief in negotiations over Syria’s ties with Israel.

Level: Advisory
Location: Iran
Category: Conflict, Civil unrest, Diplomatic issue

We have raised Iran’s risk rating from MEDIUM to HIGH due to the credible risk of further military operations against the country in the coming months amid the low likelihood of a prompt comprehensive agreement around its nuclear programme. Any attempts by Iran to rebuild its nuclear and missile programmes will expose it to renewed attacks, particularly now as the threshold for conducting fresh airstrikes against the country has significantly lowered. These will pose a credible risk to the civilian population and infrastructure due to Iran’s extremely limited air-defence capabilities, as well as have implications for Iran’s domestic security.

Advice

• Essential travel to Iran may be possible, accounting for regional developments and the risk of further direct strikes on Iranian soil, which are likely to prompt short-notice airspace closures and flight disruption.
• Managers with workforce conducting essential travel to Iran should ensure any such journeys are undertaken in compliance with sanctions and any related regulatory restrictions applicable to travellers and their organisation. If in doubt, consider obtaining your own independent legal advice before undertaking any travel to Iran.
• Managers should carefully evaluate whether to deploy their foreign national workforce to the country, taking into account their individual risk profile, limited consular support and challenges associated with access to logistical, medical and security assistance due to sanctions.
• Ensure that evacuation plans are current, realistic and ready to implement at short notice, accounting for operational challenges and availability of in-country support.
• This advice is not exhaustive. Refer to our Iran country page or reach out to the nearest Assistance Centre for more detailed advice.

More detail

Impact

Although the exchanges of hostilities have ceased, tensions over Iran's nuclear programme persist. This is at least partially driven by the fact that the exact impact of the Israeli and US airstrikes on Iran's nuclear capabilities remains unclear. While the military campaign has inflicted serious damage to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, statements from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) suggest Iran could resume uranium enrichment within ‘a matter of months’, albeit at a limited capacity. Further reports suggest Iran may still retain stockpiles of uranium enriched up to 5%, 20% and 60%, which could be further enriched up to the weapons-grade level of 90%.

Uncertainty also persists around the future status of Iran's nuclear programme and whether the recent open conflict will prompt a shift in the country’s nuclear policy. In the aftermath of the conflict, Iran reiterated its right to continue to enrich uranium domestically. The country has also put on hold its co-operation with the IAEA. Amid international calls for a resumption of US-Iran nuclear talks, Iran has ruled out a quick resumption of negotiations and insisted on guarantees that the US will not target it again.

Outlook

In the absence of a lasting and comprehensive diplomatic agreement, the recent Israeli and US military action against Iran will only serve as a temporary solution to security concerns posed by the country and its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes. With its nuclear and military capabilities reduced and the capabilities of its regional allies undermined, Iran will likely be reassessing its foreign policies and defence strategy. This could include a decision by the country’s leadership to actively seek a nuclear weapon as a deterrent against further operations against its interests.

In this context, unresolved tensions over Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes mean there is a continued credible risk of fresh rounds of hostilities against Iran. The diplomatic peace efforts will face hurdles due to deep-rooted mistrust between Iran on the one hand and Israel and the US on the other.

Fresh military operations against Iran could affect a wide range of targets across the country, including its nuclear and military infrastructure, as well as government interests. Given the country’s significantly reduced air-defence capabilities, such attacks would pose a credible risk to the civilian population and infrastructure.

In addition to these concerns, workforce in Iran will continue to face other security and operational challenges. These include a heightened risk of arbitrary detention as the government intensifies its crackdown on individuals suspected of collaborating with foreign actors, particularly Israel. There are also operational challenges associated with navigating regulatory restrictions linked to sanctions, accessing logistical, security and medical support, as well as diplomatic assistance and restricted evacuation options from the country in the event of an escalation.

These security concerns and operational challenges underpin our decision to raise the country’s risk rating to HIGH.

Context

A 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran started on 13 June, when Israel launched operation ‘Rising Lion’ with the aim of degrading Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities. On 22 June, the US conducted airstrikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities. In response, Iran targeted a US base in Qatar late on 23 June. The US did not retaliate, seeking a de-escalation of hostilities. On 24 June, a US-mediated ceasefire between Israel and Iran was announced, and the active hostilities between both parties have since ceased. However, the security situation remains fluid as any truce violations may lead to renewed escalations.

Assessment

Beyond external threats, domestic stability will remain a key concern for the government as it seeks to recover from the impact of the recent hostilities with Israel and the US. As the possibility of sanctions relief remains remote, rebuilding the infrastructure damaged during the conflict will put further strain on the country’s economy, as well as on the government’s ability to continue to subsidise essential goods, including fuel and key food staples. These issues, coupled with pre-existing anti-government sentiment, could spark fresh instances of disruptive widespread unrest in the coming 12-18 months.

Separately, while the Iranian government has continued to demonstrate its resilience in the face of domestic and external challenges, the country’s political stability will likely come under further strain. This could be fuelled by a range of issues, including: loss of regional influence; military setbacks suffered during the latest escalation; the perceived mismanagement of the country’s economy and nuclear programme; widespread popular unrest, if it occurs; or the death of the Supreme Leader, whether of natural causes or as the result of an assassination. Over the medium- to long-term, these issues could sow discord or even evolve into a power struggle among the country’s religious, military and political elite, with implications for domestic stability.

Level: Advisory
Location: India
Category: Conflict, Police/security operation

We have lowered the security risk rating for certain districts in states affected by extreme-leftist Naxal (also known as Maoist) violence from HIGH to MEDIUM following a comprehensive review of the security environment. Six Naxal-affected districts in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Maharashtra states remain HIGH risk, excluding their MEDIUM-risk district headquarters. According to the authorities, there has been an 81% decrease in left-wing extremist (LWE) violence across the country since 2010.

Advice

• Travel beyond the major cities in the Naxal-affected districts requires enhanced security and logistics support due to the presence of Naxalite rebels.
• Where possible, travel by air. Where air travel is not possible, travel by train. Naxalites are known to attack trains and railway infrastructure, especially during bandhs (shutdown strikes). As a precaution, avoid travelling by train through any areas affected by bandhs.
• If travel by road is essential, journey-management procedures should be implemented. Business travellers should ensure colleagues are updated on all road movements, agree on escalation times and are clear on what to do in the event of a breakdown or when encountering roadblocks.
• Minimise exposure to security force personnel, convoys and checkpoints. Instruct your driver to allow security convoys to pass and maintain a safe distance from such vehicles.
• Monitor our India alerts for updates.

More detail

Our review involved a thorough and comprehensive analysis of information from various reports and databases, including that of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ (MHA) LWE Division. This accounted for conflict, crime, governance, healthcare and transport infrastructure, natural hazards and social unrest. In the context of the LWE-affected areas', the key factors in assessing the security environment were Naxal-violence drivers, the number of attacks and their targets, and security operations. The most notable among the different LWE groups is the Communist Party of India-Maoist, along with its affiliated organisations.

As per our assessment, the HIGH-risk Naxal-affected districts remain the following:

• Chhattisgarh: Bijapur, Kanker, Narayanpur, Sukma
• Jharkhand: West Singhbhum
• Maharashtra: Gadchiroli

Naxalite violence is most prevalent in the rural, remote and densely forested districts of the affected states. Heightened security in urban centres limits the rebels’ operational capabilities. As such, district headquarters continue to be rated as MEDIUM-risk locations.

Decrease in violence

According to the MHA data, LWE-related violence declined by 81% from 2010 to 2024. The number of associated fatalities, including among civilians and the security forces, also decreased from 1,005 in 2010 to 150 in 2024. Additionally, the number of attacks went down from 1,936 in 2010 to 374 in 2024, with most occurring in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

Increase in security

Co-ordinated efforts by the state and central security forces have resulted in multiple large-scale security operations since 2024, during which several key Naxal leaders have been killed. The security operations highlight the central and state governments’ aggressive counter-terrorism strategy against left-wing extremism. In recent years, the establishment of more than 100 Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Naxal strongholds has enabled the security forces to disrupt rebel mobility and supply chains. These FOBs are supported by main security bases for a quick incident response. The Ministry of Home Affairs has set a deadline of 31 March 2026 to eliminate the Naxal threat across India.

Naxalite tactics

Naxal violence typically increases with the start of their annual Tactical Counter Offensive Campaign (TCOC), usually held during the dry season (March to June). Their activities also increase in their strongholds around the annual Martyrs’ Week, held from 28 July to 3 August, and during elections. Rebels may announce bandhs (shutdown strikes) on key dates and carry out arson attacks on road and rail infrastructure, as well as on vehicles that defy bandhs. There remains a possibility of militant attacks, which typically manifest as grenade or shooting attacks in public places and pose incidental risks to bystanders.

Assessment

During the TCOC, rebels increase their military activity and recruitment drives, and lay explosives before the start of the monsoon season. Thinning foliage in forested areas provides Naxalites and the security forces better visibility to carry out operations. Militants also establish checkpoints along arterial roads passing through the affected districts.

Most attacks occur in remote and forested areas of the districts rather than in urban centres, and the security forces and state apparatus are the main target. Naxalites may also look for soft targets and change strategies depending on the security forces’ offensive at the time. Civilians residing or traveling in LWE-affected regions can be potential targets, particularly if they are suspected of being police informants or of holding links to the government. Naxalites may also target infrastructure projects as well as local industries and businesses to extort money.

The rebels have demonstrated limited capabilities to operate in urban centres. However, their attacks mainly pose incidental risks to those travelling between urban centres via highways. Despite the steady decline in manpower and capabilities, LWE violence will remain a security threat in parts of central India.

Level: Advisory
Location: Mongolia
Category: Civil unrest, Natural Hazards, Crime, Crime statistics

We have lowered Mongolia’s risk rating from MEDIUM to LOW following a comprehensive review of the security environment. However, the capital Ulaanbaatar remains a MEDIUM-risk location. This reflects the continued likelihood of short-notice anti-government demonstrations, potential for escalation and moderate crime rate in Ulaanbaatar, whereas such risks are less prominent in the rest of the country. Security conditions outside the capital have remained stable, supported by overall improvements in natural-disaster response and road safety.

Advice

• Travel to Mongolia can continue with standard security precautions.
• Foreign nationals are legally required to carry relevant identity documents at all times. This means always carrying your passport if you are visiting the country or your residency card if you are living there. Failure to do so may result in a fine. A photocopy does not suffice.
• Reliable internal travel options remain limited within Mongolia. Prearrange to be met on arrival by a hotel representative or trusted local colleague, as well as transport for daily movement. Foreign nationals should always avoid non-licenced taxis or offers of lifts.
• Exercise caution regarding the sharing of potentially misleading information on social media.
• Monitor our Mongolia alerts for updates.

More detail

Our previous risk rating of MEDIUM for Mongolia was mainly driven by the possibility of sudden escalation in civil and political unrest, poor internal travel options and road-safety records, as well as the country’s exposure to natural disasters such as severe flooding and its relative lack of coping mechanism. However, a thorough review of segregated data and observation over the past few years found that the frequency and intensity of demonstrations have decreased. All anti-government protests also primarily took place in Ulaanbaatar, rather than other populated cities. International organisations’ systemic scoring on road safety and the government’s capability to respond to natural disasters also visibly improved after former prime minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene (in office 2021-25) heavily invested in infrastructure projects.

Ulaanbaatar

Despite the overall improvements in road safety and natural-disaster response, there remain several factors contributing to Ulaanbaatar’s sustained MEDIUM-risk rating.

Although the frequency and intensity of demonstrations have decreased since 2022, long-standing social grievances and economic challenges will continue to drive social unrest. Contentious issues, such as parliamentary reform and political corruption, are among those closely followed by civil groups in Mongolia. Additionally, high inflation and unemployment rates continue to fuel public discontent. Unresolved issues related to human trafficking among the local population as well as increasing industrial pollution impacting the environment can also spark anti-government protests. Being the capital and the most populated urban centre in Mongolia, we expect Ulaanbaatar to remain the focus of most demonstrations and any subsequent, potentially short-notice escalation.

The overall crime rate in Ulaanbaatar is also higher compared to the rest of the country. According to the 2024 Mongolian Unified Statistical Database, more than 65% of the reported crimes in Mongolia occurred in the capital, with Bayanzurkh, Songinokhairkhan and Sukhbaatar districts having the highest rates. Theft is one of the most common types of crime reported, followed by domestic violence and assault, most instances of which were committed under the influence of alcohol.

Level: Advisory
Location: West Bank - Palestinian Territories
Category: Conflict

We have raised the risk rating for Tubas and Tulkarm governorates in the West Bank (Palestinian Territories) from MEDIUM to HIGH. This change has been prompted by the intensification of Israeli military operations in northern governorates of the West Bank. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been conducting the so-called Iron Wall operation throughout Jenin, Tubas and Tulkarm governorates since 21 January (see related alert). This has coincided with the implementation of the Hamas-Israel ceasefire since 19 January (see related alert).

Advice

Inbound business travellers

• Defer all travel to Jenin, Tubas and Tulkarm governorates.
• Normal travel can proceed to Bethlehem, Jericho and Ramallah governorates.
• Essential travel can proceed to the rest of West Bank, though journeys to Nablus governorate should be limited to daylight hours only. Avoid overnight stays where possible.

In-country workforce

• Workforce in the West Bank should strictly adhere to the below precautions:
• Travel to the West Bank requires journey-management planning. Ensure that you are briefed on the prevailing risks and necessary mitigating measures, and are fully confident in your accommodation, transport and security arrangements.
• Use a trusted local driver and private vehicle. Do not self-drive or use public transport.
• Maintain flexible travel plans as the Israeli security forces may impose curfews, travel bans, road closures or similar restrictions in areas of the West Bank with little-to-no notice. This is especially true following attacks in either the West Bank or Israel, after which security operations are systematically conducted in the hometowns of the attackers.
• Carry photographic ID at all times to present at security force spot-checks. Exercise heightened caution when approaching roadblocks and checkpoints.
• Avoid all types of security operations and gatherings due to the credible risk of unrest and associated security incidents. Leave an area immediately if a crowd or security force personnel begin to gather. Checkpoints, settlements and refugee camps are potential flashpoints throughout the whole of the West Bank.
• There is a risk of illegal detention in the West Bank. This is heightened if you are suspected of being Israeli or of working on behalf of Israeli interests. We recommend that foreign national Jews ensure they display no overt signs of their faith.
• Ensure you have access to verified information provided in a timely manner to enable tactical-level decision making.
• Understand the situation remains fluid and can escalate further at short notice, requiring swift action.
• Adhere to your organisation’s preparedness protocols in the event of escalation necessitating evacuation or internal relocation.

More detail

While IDF operations commonly occur throughout the West Bank, their intensity and frequency have dramatically increased since the launch of Iron Wall. Most related clashes and operations have taken place in Jenin, Tubas and Tulkarm. The Israeli authorities have stated the operation is targeting alleged militants, including those affiliated with Hamas. However, it has left more than 40,000 civilians displaced across the West Bank, predominantly in northern governorates. In addition, local sources suggest more than 70 militants and civilians have been killed, while more than 380 others have been arrested during the operation. Intermittent clashes involving the use of gunfire and explosives have been reported in Tubas and Tulkarm. Aerial strikes have also increased across northern governorates, including Tubas and Tulkarm.

The Hamas-Israel and Hizbullah-Israel ceasefires have allowed for a reduction of hostilities in the Gaza Strip (Palestinian Territories) and Lebanon. This has, in turn, given Israel an opportunity to increasingly shift its focus and resources to the West Bank. The Hamas-Israel ceasefire has so far seen more than 1,000 prisoners released and returned to the West Bank, including alleged militants.

The IDF has deployed several additional battalions in the West Bank, including in Tubas and Tulkarm. According to the Israeli authorities, operations in the West Bank will last for the next year. Further IDF deployments, operations and aerial strikes, as well as armed clashes, can therefore be expected over coming weeks and months in Tubas and Tulkarm. IDF operations are also likely to expand to other governorates across the West Bank.

Level: Advisory
Location: Jordan
Category: Terrorism, Police/security operation

We have lowered the security risk rating of Jordan’s border area with Iraq from MEDIUM to LOW following a comprehensive review of the local security environment. The threat of terrorism spillover into Jordan from the neighbouring Iraq was the key driver of the border’s MEDIUM risk rating in previous years. However, ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in Iraq combined with increased co-operation between Jordan and Iraq have contributed to an improved security environment in the Jordan-Iraq border areas. Furthermore, there have been no notable security incidents along the border in the past few years, driving our decision to lower the area’s risk rating.

Advice

• Travel to Jordan can continue with standard security precautions, including to border areas with Iraq.
• Enlist support of a local provider and ensure solid journey-management planning is in place for travel to remote areas.
• This includes access to an adequate accommodation and transportation, including a trusted, bilingual local driver; and a vehicle in a good condition equipped with spare tyres, enough water, food and petrol to complete your journey.
• Monitor our Jordan alerts for updates.

More detail

As of 2025, residual extremist Islamic State (IS) group cells remain active in Iraq, including in Iraq’s Anbar province, which borders Jordan. However, they do not pose a direct and significant threat to Jordan. This is due to the increased border security posture of Jordan and increased security co-operation with Iraq. In August 2017, the countries re-opened the Al-Karamah- Traibeel Border Crossing following Iraqi efforts to regain control of all cities across Anbar.

There has also been a lack of security incidents linked to militancy along the shared border over the past few years. These developments are the main drivers behind the lowering of the risk rating of the areas within 15.5 miles (25 km) of the Iraq border to LOW. This risk rating is now in line with the rest of the country. The border areas within 15.5 miles (25 km) of the Syria border remain rated as MEDIUM risk due to instability in neighbouring Syria and concerns linked to cross-border smuggling.

Context

We raised the risk rating of the areas within 15.5 miles (25km) of the Iraq border in Jordan to MEDIUM in 2009 amid the withdrawal of US forces in Iraq, contributing to an increase in militant and criminal activity. This was further reflected during the height of IS expansion in Iraq in late 2014. The group repeatedly declared hostility towards Jordanian authorities, especially after Jordan joined a US-led coalition against IS in September 2014. In late 2014, the group capture and executed of a Jordanian fighter pilot. Subsequently, the proximity to Iraqi territories controlled by the IS exposed border areas in Jordan to the risk of cross-border attacks.

Nevertheless, IS has since lost all of its territorial control in Iraq, curtaining significantly its capability to conduct complex attacks against Jordan. Simultaneously, Jordan doubled its military presence along the border with Iraq.

Level: Notice
Location: Bougainville - Papua New Guinea
Category: Civil unrest, Conflict, Crime

International SOS has decreased the risk rating for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville to MEDIUM following a thorough review of the security environment. The change is driven by observed lower levels of crime, social unrest and tribal conflict in the territory compared to other parts of the country. Despite an ongoing push for independence, its political situation remains relatively stable. However, the region has a limited security presence and relatively poorer road conditions. Therefore, overland journeys within Bougainville, especially outside Buka, still require the support of local contacts and comprehensive journey management plans.

Advice

• Travel to Bougainville can continue with security precautions.
• Secure accommodation options are limited and communication is intermittent in Bougainville, especially outside Buka.
• Liaise with reliable local contacts to ensure you are fully confident in your security, communications, transport and accommodation arrangements. Carry reliable communication devices at all times and understand whom to contact in the event of an emergency. Occasional bouts of ethnic violence are possible in southern Bougainville. These are usually highly localised and do not pose a significant risk to business travellers.
• Use a trusted local driver for overland travel. The latter should be done during daylight hours and stops along the route should be minimised. Do not attempt overland travel during heavy rain. Reconfirm the status of routes before setting out.
• Monitor our Papua New Guinea alerts for updates.

More detail

The decision to decrease Bougainville’s risk rating was taken following two separate visits to the region in 2024. Rates of crime, including violent crime, and tribal conflict are significantly lower in Bougainville than in the capital Port Moresby or other urban centres. Local sources our team spoke to have attributed the presence of stronger community ties and cultural norms as important factors. The presence of female advocacy groups has also aided in limiting the instances of violence against women.

Remnants of armed factions from the civil war between 1988 and 1998 are still present, especially in southern Bougainville, close to the Panguna Mine. Industrial activity such as illegal logging can draw hostility from such groups, in particular the Mekamui, which are broadly opposed to the encroaching industry. However, violent incidents involving them are rare and efforts to disarm these groups have been broadly successful.

Outlook

Two potential sources of deterioration in the security environment of the region are related to the ongoing independence movement and the potential reopening of the Panguna Mine. The two issues are essentially linked, as the reopening of the mine is seen by local politicians as ensuring the economic viability of the new state. Bougainville’s independence referendum passed in 2019. However, the potential revenue from the mine is likely one of the key reasons why the federal government has sought to delay the region’s independence process.

Despite this, the re-emergence of conflict related to the Panguna Mine is unlikely. The mine’s potential reopening has reportedly garnered widespread support in Bougainville, including from local landowners who were previously in opposition to the mine’s operation, due to its economic benefits. Armed groups related to the conflict have also diminished in capabilities and size. Police operations to reconcile disputes between factions within the Mekamui have also been broadly successful and limited the groups’ activities.

The federal government is likely to further delay independence for Bougainville, though this is unlikely to lead to any unrest. People in the region still strongly support its independence, as evidenced by the 97% vote in favour of it in the 2019 referendum. However, according to our local contacts, there is a sense, especially among younger people, that delaying independence would allow the region to be better prepared economically as an independent state. This is likely to curb frustration and unrest related to the delayed independence process.

Level: Advisory
Location: Baghdad - Iraq
Category: Terrorism, Civil unrest, Political unrest, Protest/Rally, Crime

We have reduced the risk rating for the capital Baghdad from Extreme to HIGH. The change reflects an overall improvement in the security situation over recent years. This is attributable to reduced levels of militancy and the security forces’ improved capabilities. Nevertheless, the new HIGH risk rating reflects several enduring security threats, namely high levels of crime, tribal violence, pro-Iranian armed group activity and periodic socio-economic or political unrest. Travel to Baghdad therefore requires comprehensive security support.

Advice

• Travel to Baghdad can proceed, but requires a specific pre-travel threat assessment conducted as part of a comprehensive and fully co-ordinated security programme. This entails flexible itineraries, detailed preparation and dedicated professional security support.
• Conduct an individual risk assessment to determine if your profile, including your nationality, exposes you to additional risks while in-country. Individuals with an elevated profile, such as US nationals, should maintain a low profile and exercise heightened situational awareness at all times.
• Exercise heightened vigilance and minimise time spent in the vicinity of US diplomatic, military or commercial interests and those associated with pro-Iran groups.
• Strictly avoid all protests and be prepared to leave an area where crowds are anticipated or begin to gather. Expect a heightened security force presence around potential flashpoints for unrest, such as public squares, government buildings and political party offices.
• Minimise time spent around potential targets for militant attacks. These include government buildings, security force personnel and assets, diplomatic missions, religious sites and symbolic foreign interests.
• This advice is not exhaustive. Contact your nearest Assistance Centre for country- and profile-specific advice prior to travel.

More detail

Militancy

Baghdad has not experienced major terrorist attacks since 2021. Since then, the threat posed by militancy in the city has gradually receded. This reflects improved security force capabilities and counterterrorism efforts in the city and the country as a whole.

Nevertheless, periodic counterterrorism raids and operations targeting suspects linked to the extremist Islamic State (IS) group are carried out in and around Baghdad. An active IS presence has been reported in the Al Tarmiya area (Salah al-Din governorate), 35 miles (56km) north of the capital. Ambushes, exchanges of fire between suspected militants and the security forces, as well as raids on suspected hideouts and weapons caches, are frequent there.

There is also growing concern over a potential resurgence of IS in Syria following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's rule (2000-24) there. Such a development would mean a risk of militancy spilling over into Iraq. Nevertheless, this is unlikely to prompt an immediate and material change in the capital's militancy threat level. If the threat of increased IS capabilities in Syria does materialise, it is far more likely to affect EXTREME-risk areas of Iraq where the group already has a presence.

Unrest and political instability

Baghdad remains exposed to periodic disruptive demonstrations driven by political, socio-economic issues and regional developments. Unemployment and wage disputes, in particular, trigger regular protests.

However, the formation of a government at the end of 2022 has contributed to improved political stability. Since then, disruptive political unrest in the capital has decreased.

Other security concerns

There is a credible risk of tribal violence and crime exacerbated by widespread weapons proliferation, particularly in Baghdad’s suburbs.

Increased anti-Western and anti-Israeli sentiment has been stoked by the Israel-Hamas conflict. Growing pressure for the US to withdraw from Iraq can result in protests, as well as targeted attacks on US and other foreign interests in the city.

Assessment

The security forces’ enhanced capabilities in Baghdad and ongoing counterterrorism efforts across Iraq will continue to undermine IS’ efforts to rebuild its capabilities. This will mitigate the risk of complex terrorist attacks in the capital. Nevertheless, militancy will still pose a risk in the city, albeit at a lower rate. Periodic counterterrorism operations in and around Baghdad, and the active IS presence to the north, suggest that the group intends further attacks in the capital.

Other security risks present in the city, such as crime, unrest and tribal violence, will continue to drive Baghdad’s HIGH risk rating. We also expect political tensions to escalate once again during the October 2025 parliamentary election cycle, prompting a rise in related unrest and political violence.

Economic issues, regional developments and disruption to essential service provision will remain key drivers of demonstrations. Such events can cause localised disruption and expose bystanders to incidental risks.

Any flare-up of regional tensions could result in a resumption of attacks on US-linked military and diplomatic interests in Baghdad and elsewhere. Iraq-based militant groups may also attempt cross-border missile strikes on Israel. The US and Israel are liable to retaliate against successful attacks that cause damage and/or casualties by striking pro-Iranian armed groups’ positions in Iraq. Theoretically, this could affect Baghdad if the targeted group has its headquarters or infrastructure in or around the city.

Despite the decrease in Baghdad’s risk rating, travel to the city requires a comprehensive pre-trip threat assessment and security support.

Level: Advisory
Location: Saudi Arabia
Category: Terrorism

We have lowered the security risk rating of Saudi Arabia’s border area with Iraq from HIGH to MEDIUM following a review of the local security environment. The threat of terrorism spillover into Saudi Arabia from the neighbouring Iraq was the key driver of the border’s HIGH risk rating. However, there have been no notable incidents along the border in the past few years. Ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in Iraq combined with increased co-operation between Saudi Arabia and Iraq have contributed to an improved security environment in the border areas, prompting our decision to lower the area’s risk rating.

Advice

• Travel to Saudi Arabia, including the border areas with Iraq, can continue with standard security precautions.
• Enlist the support of a local provider and ensure solid journey management planning is in place for travel to remote areas. This includes access to adequate accommodation and transport, including a trusted, bilingual local driver and a vehicle in good condition and equipped with spare tyres, and enough water, food and petrol to complete your journey.
• Travel to Saudi Arabia requires a good understanding of local laws, culture and norms. Ensure travellers receive a briefing on the current security situation and local customs and behaviour prior to travel.
• Exercise caution regarding the sharing of potentially misleading information on social media.
• Monitor our Saudi Arabia alerts for updates.

More detail

We had raised the risk rating of the areas within 18.6 miles (30km) of the Iraq border in Saudi Arabia to HIGH in 2015 amid the extremist Islamic State (IS) expansion in Iraq. The group repeatedly declared its hostility towards the Saudi authorities. This, as well as the proximity to Iraqi territories controlled by the IS, exposed border areas in Saudi Arabia to the risk of cross-border attacks.

Although residual IS cells remain active in Iraq, including in Iraq’s Anbar province, which borders the kingdom, as of 2024, they do not pose a direct and significant threat to Saudi Arabia. This is due to an increased border security posture of Saudi Arabia and increased security co-operation with Iraq. In November 2020, the Arar border crossing (Northern province) re-opened after being closed for 30 years, facilitating commerce and pilgrimage. In February 2023, Iraq and Saudi Arabia signed a security agreement, further strengthening their bilateral ties.

These developments, paired with the lack of security incidents linked to militancy along the shared border over the past few years, are the main drivers behind the lowering of the risk rating of the areas within 18.6 miles of the Iraq border to MEDIUM. This risk rating is now in line with the rest of the country.

We have increased the risk ratings for the City of Johannesburg (Gauteng province) and eThekwini (KwaZulu-Natal province) metropolitan municipalities from MEDIUM to HIGH. This follows a review of the risks posed by crime and social unrest. These municipalities respectively contain Johannesburg and Durban cities. The HIGH risk rating accounts for greater risks of political unrest and violence. We continue to rate South Africa overall as a MEDIUM-risk country and advise that travel there, including to the City of Johannesburg and eThekwini, can proceed. However, journeys to both municipalities require enhanced precautions, including an itinerary-specific pre-travel briefing on the prevailing risks.

We have raised the risk rating for areas within 31 miles (50km) of the northern border with Lebanon from MEDIUM to HIGH. This change has been prompted by an increase in daily cross-border rocket fire (see map) from Hizbullah, which is based in Lebanon. The rocket fire regularly targets civilian population centres and results in frequent air raid sirens.

We have raised the security risk rating for parts of Lebanon due to expanding and intensifying conflict between Hizbullah and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). There is a credible risk of further escalation of hostilities and the associated impact on the civilian population and infrastructure that will continue to affect the country in the coming months. This has prompted our decision to raise Baalbek-Hermel and Bekaa governorates’ risk rating from HIGH to EXTREME, as well as Akkar, Keserwan-Jbeil, Mount Lebanon and North governorates’ rating from MEDIUM to HIGH.

We have raised Sudan’s overall security risk rating from HIGH to EXTREME due to the ongoing conflict that continues to expand and is unlikely to be resolved in the coming months. In June, fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) spread into Sennar state. Additionally, in August, the RSF conducted its first incursion into Blue Nile state. To reflect the current and expected direct impact of conflict violence, the risk rating for both states has been raised from HIGH to EXTREME. Gedaref, Kassala, Northern, Red Sea and River Nile states remain rated HIGH-risk but continue to face a credible risk of violence spillover from conflict affected areas.

Following a country-assessment trip and a thorough review of the security and operational environments, we have raised the security risk rating for Lebanon to HIGH due to persistent risks posed by the ongoing Israel-Hizbullah conflict. The HIGH risk rating will apply to the capital Beirut and Baalbek-Hermel and Beqaa governorates. The risk ratings for Nabatieh and South governorates are being raised from HIGH to EXTREME to reflect the significant impact of cross-border attacks. Further acute increases in Israel-Hizbullah tensions in the coming months will sustain the risk of miscalculation and escalation and the expansion of hostilities to areas currently less impacted by the conflict.

International SOS has escalated the risk rating for multiple areas in Myanmar’s conflict zones from HIGH to EXTREME following a thorough review of the security environment. The change reflects the increased levels of conflict over recent months. Following the launch of an ethnic armed organisations (EAO) coalition offensive named ‘Operation 1027’ in October 2023, conflict levels have increased across Myanmar, particularly in areas adjacent to conflict zones. As such, there has been a widening of the conflict zones, especially in Shan state and Mandalay region. The capital Naypyitaw and Yangon (Yangon region) continue to remain HIGH risk, where principal risks stem from political unrest.

International SOS has increased the risk rating for New Caledonia (France) from LOW to MEDIUM. This follows a thorough review of the security environment and reflects the assessed longer-term deterioration within the country. The change is driven primarily by an increase in the level of social unrest related to opposition on the territory to a proposed constitutional reform bill. There has also been a noticeable increase to levels of crime and conflict. Natural hazards such as tropical cyclones continue to be a persistent issue, though we assess risk levels remain the same. Continue to defer non-essential travel to New Caledonia until further notice.

We have raised the risk rating for areas within six miles (10km) of the northern border with Lebanon from MEDIUM to HIGH. This also includes all areas north of Route 89, from Nahariya to Elifelet (both Northern district). The change has been prompted by recurrent cross-border rocket fire (see map) between Hizbullah and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Hizbullah, which is based in Lebanon, in recent months has targeted several towns and IDF infrastructure in northern Israel. Continue to defer all travel to areas of Israel within six miles of Lebanon and Syria.

We have lowered the risk rating for areas within 18 miles (30km) of the Liberian border in Bas-Sassandra and Montagnes districts from HIGH to MEDIUM. This follows a review of the security environment and reflects reduced levels of militia activity over several years. Despite the improvements, there remains a latent risk of banditry and travel to these regions continues to pose operational challenges, given their remoteness. Journeys to such areas should therefore be undertaken with enhanced precautions, including professional security support and solid journey management plans.

We have changed our risk ratings for multiple areas of Mexico after conducting a thorough review of the security environment. The risk ratings for most of Chiapas state, Tabasco state and part of Sonora state have been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH. Portions of Baja California, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Mexico, Puebla and Veracruz states have also been lowered from HIGH to MEDIUM. Lastly, portions of Baja California Sur state have been lowered from MEDIUM to LOW. Operations within and travel to Mexico should be undertaken following an itinerary- and profile-specific review, accounting for prevailing threats and appropriate mitigation measures.

Following a review of the risks posed by communal violence and banditry, International SOS has expanded the HIGH risk rating for north-western counties to include Baringo county. Since 2022, there has been an increase in violent incidents in Baringo, making the security environment comparable to other HIGH-risk areas in north-west Kenya, namely Isiolo, Marsbasit, Turkana and West Pokot counties. The HIGH risk rating also accounts for the challenging logistical environment marked by limited access to emergency and other services, and variable standards of roads and other infrastructure. Travel to Baringo requires enhanced precautions, including an itinerary-specific pre-travel threat assessment.

After conducting a review of the security environment, we have lowered our risk rating for General Santos (South Cotabato province) and Iligan (Lanao del Norte province) cities from HIGH to MEDIUM. The rest of South Cotabato and Lanao del Norte remains HIGH risk. While both cities are geographically located in the aforementioned provinces, they are independent cities that are separately administered and have higher levels of security than surrounding areas that effectively mitigate identified risks.

International SOS has reduced the risk rating for Luang Prabhang, Vientiane and Xiengkhuang provinces from Medium to LOW, following a thorough review of their security environments. The change reflects the reduced levels of militancy in these locations over several years. Meanwhile, Xaysomboun province will continue to be rated as MEDIUM, while the overall countrywide risk remains LOW. Travel and operations to Xaysomboun province should be conducted with a robust journey management plan in place.

International SOS has lowered the risk rating for parts of the northern districts of Songkhla province (southern Thailand) from MEDIUM to LOW following a thorough review of the security environment. The change reflects the reduced levels of militancy over several years. These districts include Bang Klam, Khuan Niang, Krasae Sin, Muang Songhkla, Ranot, Rattaphum, Sathing Phra and Singhanakhon. However, districts such as Hat Yai, Khlong Hoi Khong, Na Mom and Sadao continue to be rated as MEDIUM. Travel and operations to other southern provinces should be conducted with a robust journey management plan in place.

We have lowered the risk rating for most of Bujumbura Rural province from HIGH to MEDIUM following a review of the security environment, including an in-country assessment trip conducted in February. The change reflects a gradual improvement in the security environment since 2020. However, parts of the province – including west of the Rusizi river and north of Isale – remain HIGH risk due to the presence of rebel groups, as well as occasional rebel incursions from Congo (DRC). Travel to these areas should continue to be for essential purposes only.

We have revised the HIGH-risk districts of Arunachal Pradesh and Asom (Assam) states that are affected by low-level ethnic insurgencies. These are now the Changlang, Longding and Tirap districts of Arunachal Pradesh and Asom’s Charaideo, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar and Tinsukia districts. Insurgent groups operating in these areas maintain safe havens and camps in neighbouring countries. Although incidents of violence have decreased overall, intermittent attacks and kidnaps continue to be reported. Protests in these states can also become unruly at short notice. Curfews may be imposed during periods of heightened tensions and special travel permits may be required by the authorities.

International SOS has escalated the risk rating for the conflict zones from HIGH to EXTREME following a thorough review of the security environment. The change reflects the increased levels of conflict over recent years. Following the military coup in February 2021, the security environment in Myanmar has shifted from protest-related violence towards a civil war, with People’s Defence Forces (PDF) gaining ground and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) intensifying their operations. The capital Naypyitaw and Yangon (Yangon region) continue to remain HIGH risk, where principal risks stem from political unrest.

We have reviewed the risks posed by ongoing conflicts between the federal government and rebel groups. As a result, we have raised the risk rating for ten administrative zones in Amhara and Oromia states from HIGH to EXTREME. These are East Gojam, North Shewa, North Wollo, West Gojam (all Amhara), East Shewa, East Wellega, Horo Guduru, North Shewa, West Shewa and West Wellega (all Oromia). This accounts for acute risk of exposure to conflict-related violence, an increased risk of violent crime (including kidnap) and reduced government control. The risk rating for the other zones in both states remains HIGH.

We have raised the security risk rating for Nabatieh and South governorates from Medium to HIGH (see map). This is due to the credible and persistent risks posed by cross-border hostilities between Israel and the Lebanon-based Shia Muslim movement Hizbullah. The intensity of such exchanges has gradually increased during the escalation of conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas. The geographical scope of Israeli strikes in Nabatieh and South governorates has also expanded. Cross-border incidents will persist in tandem with the Israel-Hamas conflict. Meanwhile, there is a credible risk of further spillover violence and expansion of hostilities further into Lebanon.

International SOS has lowered the risk rating for the Terai (southern Nepal) from HIGH to MEDIUM following a thorough review of the security environment. The change reflects the reduced levels of social unrest and militancy in the Terai over several years. Despite the improvements, the country’s less resilient infrastructure outside the Kathmandu Valley region, and evolving security environment poses a certain degree of operational challenges. Travel to and operations within the Terai should be conducted with a robust journey management plan in place.

We have raised the security risk rating for Syunik and Vayots Dzor provinces to HIGH due to a heightened risk of spillover in the event of a conflict with neighbouring Azerbaijan. While the security environment in these provinces is relatively benign, low-level hostilities along the shared international border persist. In the absence of a bilateral peace agreement, there will be a continued threat of a more wide-ranging direct conflict reoccurring. This development can take place through accidental escalation or an offensive launched by either side. If this happens, Syunik and Vayots Dzor will likely be most impacted due to their strategic location between Azerbaijan and its exclave of Nakhchivan.

We have raised the risk rating from MEDIUM to HIGH for El Oro, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Rios, Manabi, Santa Elena and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas provinces amid a sustained increase in violent crime linked to drug-trafficking and gang activity. These provinces join Guayaquil (Guayas) and Colombian border areas as HIGH-risk zones of Ecuador. The capital Quito and the rest of the country remain MEDIUM-risk, where the principle risks stem from opportunistic crime and social unrest. Travel to and operations in HIGH-risk areas of Ecuador should be conducted for essential purposes only and with stringent security precautions.

We have raised the risk ratings for the cities of Jenin and Nablus (both West Bank) from MEDIUM to HIGH to reflect an increase in risks to workforce posed by militancy and raids conducted by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Both cities have in recent months experienced a surge in militancy, with the creation of new militant groups. The escalation in the regularity and level of violence during raids by the IDF has been accompanied by an increase in the use of roadside bombs by militant groups and air strikes by the IDF.

International SOS has lowered the country risk rating for El Salvador from HIGH to MEDIUM following a thorough review of the security environment. This change reflects reduced levels of gang-related, violent crime under the ongoing state of emergency (SoE). Despite these improvements, the country’s evolving security environment poses increasing operational challenges to a variety of organisations working in politically sensitive fields, including human-rights advocacy and journalism. Travel to and operations within El Salvador should be conducted following an itinerary and profile-specific review accounting for prevailing threats and appropriate mitigation measures.

We have raised the security risk rating for provinces bordering Ukraine from MEDIUM to HIGH due to a persistent risk of cross-border attacks amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The provinces affected by this change are Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk, Rostov and Voronezh. As Ukraine’s counter-offensive intensifies in the coming months, the frequency of such cross-border attacks is likely to increase. Additionally, the increased presence of the Russian military forces and weaponry in border areas poses incidental risks to the people in the region. Travel to these HIGH-risk areas requires enhanced precautions, including strong journey management procedures and robust local support networks.

We have raised our risk ratings for the southern half of Centre-Nord region as well as Yatenga (Nord region), Boulgou, Koulpelogo (both Centre-Est region), Banwa, Kossi, Mouhoun, Nayala and Sourou (all Boucle du Mouhoun region) provinces from HIGH to EXTREME. This change follows a drastic rise in militant activity and parallel loss of state control since the start of 2022. All travel to these areas should be avoided.

International SOS has changed the risk ratings for several areas of Mexico after conducting a thorough review of the security environment. The risk ratings for portions of Nuevo Leon and Puebla states as well as most of Sonora state have been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH risk. All of Tabasco state, most of Jalisco state and portions of Guanajuato and Tamaulipas states have been lowered from HIGH to MEDIUM risk. All of Yucatan state has been lowered from MEDIUM to LOW risk. Operations within and travel to Mexico should be undertaken following an itinerary- and profile-specific review accounting for prevailing threats and appropriate mitigation measures.

We have raised the country risk rating from LOW to MEDIUM to reflect increased criminality in urban centres and an increase in the frequency and impact of protest activity. The risk rating for the city of Guayaquil (Guayas province) – the epicentre of the recent increase in violence linked to organised crime – has been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH. The capital Quito retains a risk rating of MEDIUM. Travel to and operations within Ecuador should be conducted following an itinerary- and profile-specific review accounting for prevailing threats and appropriate mitigation measures.

The risk rating for areas within 30 miles (50km) of the Burkina Faso border to the west of the Niger river has been raised to EXTREME to reflect the risks posed by militancy and the lack of government presence in this area. Areas of Tahoua region within 30 miles (50km) of the border with Mali have been raised to EXTREME to reflect the risks posed by armed conflict in this zone. Areas of Tahoua and Maradi regions within 24 miles (40km) of Nigeria have been raised to HIGH risk to reflect risks posed by banditry in these areas.

We have lowered the security risk rating of the Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region (XUAR) from MEDIUM to LOW following a routine review. Security measures have been tightened in XUAR from 2017. The threat stemming from the Uighur militancy has decreased, with no notable attack reported since 2017. Protests are usually small-scale and pass off peacefully. Infrastructure development has also improved connectivity. While XUAR is vulnerable to natural hazards, local preparedness has improved after the setup of a regional emergency management centre in 2018. 

We have raised the risk rating from MEDIUM to HIGH for several parts of Colombia after conducting a review of the security environment, considering the COVID-19 pandemic’s impacts on criminality and other factors. A HIGH-risk zone has been expanded to capture portions of all departments that border Venezuela. A similar HIGH-risk zone along the country’s border with Ecuador remains in place. Northern Antioquia department, along with the western edge of several departments along the Pacific coast, have also been raised to HIGH risk. Travel to and operations within Colombia should be conducted following an itinerary- and profile-specific review accounting for prevailing threats and appropriate mitigation measures.

We have raised the risk rating for Alibori and Atakora departments from LOW to MEDIUM in order to reflect our recent assessment of the local security environment. Both departments face higher risks from social and communal clashes as well as banditry. We also extended the HIGH-risk area to the rest of the Pendjari (Alibori department) and W (Atakora department) National Parks. This follows an uptick in the frequency of cross-border militancy and banditry attacks since the end of 2021. Areas along the border with Burkina Faso and Niger will remain HIGH-risk travel locations.

We have lowered the country’s security risk rating from MEDIUM to LOW following a review of the security environment. The frequency and scale of social unrest has decreased in recent years amid more stringent laws around protests. Protests that do periodically occur remain largely non-violent. Additionally, despite increasing occurrences and scale of natural disasters, Fiji has significantly increased preparedness and response mechanisms in conjunction with partners such as Australia and New Zealand. 

We have raised the country's security risk rating from MEDIUM to HIGH due to increased insecurity from frequent rebel attacks, persistent protests, intercommunal violence and the risks posed by the conflict between the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government. This covers most states and the areas within 18.6 miles (30km) of the Kenya, Somalia and South Sudan borders. Tigray state has been increased from HIGH to EXTREME security risk given the heightened insecurity and logistical disruption from the conflict with the TPLF. Somali region has been downgraded from HIGH to MEDIUM security risk due to increased stability.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk, Lviv, Ternopil and Zakarpattia provinces to HIGH and the rest of Ukraine to EXTREME amid an ongoing Russian military operation. The operation began on 24 February after months of Russian military build-up along Ukrainian borders. Donetsk and Luhansk provinces remain EXTREME travel risk locations. The Russian military assault has impacted the security environment countrywide and it will continue to deteriorate for the duration of the operation. There will be significant risk to life in areas with active military operations. All travel to Ukraine should be deferred. Those in Ukraine should stand fast if in areas of active military operations.

The travel risk rating for Est region and areas north of Kaya in Centre-Nord region have been increased from HIGH to EXTREME following a routine review of the security environment. Sahel-based militant groups have shown considerable capabilities in these areas, including the targeting of defense and security forces in complex attacks, including the temporary holding of territory. Road movement, including along primary routes, is particularly hazardous for both the local and international workforce. Despite the authorities targeting militant groups via air-and-ground operations, they remain ill equipped to fully counter the threat in the medium-term. All travel should be deferred.

We have lowered the security risk rating for the capital Damascus from EXTREME to HIGH to reflect the reduced risks posed by the civil conflict. The frequency and scale of anti-government unrest, and clashes with armed opposition groups have decreased since 2018, when government forces recaptured the capital region. We do not assess a significant deterioration in the security environment to be likely in the coming months. Workforce will continue to face credible risks associated with violent crime, kidnapping and militancy. Essential travel to Damascus may be possible following consultation with your legal counsel regarding sanctions compliance.

We have raised our travel risk rating for the capital Port-au-Prince from HIGH to EXTREME to reflect the worsening risks posed by gang activity, including direct crime risks. Criminal gangs have significantly expanded their territorial control and degree of influence in the city, which has resulted in critically high levels of crime and insecurity targeting local and foreign nationals alike. The government remains unable to adequately address the situation amid the country’s concurrent political, economic and humanitarian crises. Areas outside of Port-au-Prince remain HIGH travel risk zones. Continue to defer all travel to Haiti. In-country workforce who are unable to depart should continue to minimise movement.

We have lowered the risk rating for Johor Bahru (Johor state) from MEDIUM to LOW following a thorough review of the security environment. Crime rates in the city have reduced in recent years due to active police operations. Incidents of social unrest are rare and tend to be small, localised and peaceful. While terrorist attacks remain possible in urban centres like Johor Bahru, the majority of plots and attacks over the past three years have centred around the capital Kuala Lumpur and Selangor state, both of which remain rated as MEDIUM risk locations.

We have increased our travel risk rating for Tigray state to HIGH due to the continued conflict in the region and potential for further escalation in the coming months. Persisting logistical constraints and communications disruption will also continue to complicate operations in the state. The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF)’s ability to wrest back control of the state capital Mekelle from federal forces in June, its increasing territorial gains within the state and ongoing operations in Amhara and Afar states, as well as the provision of troops by other states to support federal forces, suggests the conflict and associated insecurity will persist in Tigray in the coming months. Continue to defer all travel to Tigray and to areas of Afar and Amhara bordering Tigray. 

We have raised our travel risk rating for Zacatecas state from MEDIUM to HIGH following a routine review of the security environment. The level of violent crime indicators, including homicide rate, increased notably in 2020 and has risen further through the first several months of 2021. The escalation in violence is due, at least in part, to the expansion of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) into the state, which has fought with both the Sinaloa Cartel and Northeast Cartel. Managers with operations in Zacatecas should review security postures to account for the escalated incidental risk posed to workforce in the state. 

We have raised the risk rating for parts of Sughd province within 18.6 miles (30km) of the border with Kyrgyzstan to HIGH to reflect the risk posed by cross-border violence. Other considerations include the lack of logistical support in the event of a sudden deterioration in the security environment. Non-essential travel to this area should be avoided. Travel to other parts of Sughd can continue with standard security precautions.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the capital Tripoli and Misrata (Misrata district) from EXTREME to HIGH. This reflects the broad stabilisation of the security environments in these areas compared to the rest of the country since June 2020, which saw the end of an offensive launched by General Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army (LNA) against the capital. Although people in these areas continue to face several credible security risks, essential travel may be possible subject to a specific pre-travel threat assessment conducted as part of a comprehensive and fully co-ordinated security programme.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Myanmar from Medium to HIGH. This reflects the increased security risks arising from heightened levels of violence and political instability since the 1 February military takeover. Actions by anti-military groups have increasingly involved explosions and clashes (including shoot-outs) with troops. The timing, targeting patterns and increasingly unpredictable locations of such incidents mean there is a greater likelihood of an associated impact on civilians. This in turn has raised the risk of incidental exposure to violence and a heightened security posture is therefore required.

We have raised the security risk rating for Macomia, Meluco, Mocimboa da Praia, Muidumbe, Nangade, Palma and Quissanga districts (all Cabo Delgado province) from HIGH to EXTREME to reflect the heightened risks of militant attacks.  The Islamist militant al-Sunnah group has over the past year displayed enhanced capabilities to launch complex attacks on villages and towns, and successfully seize control of territory. Other considerations include information restrictions and limited logistical networks to conduct evacuations out of locations that come under attack. Non-essential workforce should be evacuated from these districts and all inbound travel should be deferred.

We have raised the travel risk rating for areas within 12 miles (20km) of the Mozambican border and inland up to 93 miles (150km) from the coast from MEDIUM to HIGH to reflect the increased risk of cross-border insurgency. Other considerations include limited logistical networks to conduct evacuations in the event of a sudden deterioration in the security environment. All travel to this area should be avoided. Travel to other parts of Mtwara region can continue, but should be supported by a security provider in rural areas.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Mayotte (France) from LOW to MEDIUM following a routine review of the security environment. A noted increase in criminality and unrest, as well as the limited ability of the local authorities to respond to such incidents, poses an increased threat to staff within the territory. Members should maintain heightened situational awareness at all times and remain abreast of current security developments before setting out.

We have extended the risk rating of the areas within 18 miles (30km) of the border with Burkina Faso in the Tillaberi region to the whole Say department to reflect recent degradation of the security environment and the increasing threat posed by militancy and banditry. The risk rating has been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH, highlighting the need to avoid all non-essential travel in the rest of the department. The capital Niamey and its province remain rated as MEDIUM risk due to the more robust security presence in the city.

We have raised the travel risk rating from MEDIUM to HIGH for various townships in Rakhine state following an internal review of the security environment. The HIGH travel risk area in Rakhine has been extended from northern parts of the state to central townships – Minbya, Mrauk-U, Myebon and Pauktaw – due to intermittent insurgent activities. Despite potential peace talks between the authorities and relevant rebel groups, clashes will continue ahead of and beyond the November general elections in the insurgency-affected areas.

We have changed the travel risk ratings for various areas in India following a thorough review of the security environment. In the north, Rajouri and Doda districts (Jammu division, Jammu and Kashmir union territory (UT)) have been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH. In the north-east, both Tripura state and Guwahati city (Asom (Assam) state) have been downgraded from HIGH to MEDIUM. In addition, we have updated the ratings for areas affected by Naxal (also known as Maoists) activity, raising some areas to HIGH while downgrading some to MEDIUM.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the southern half of Segou region and for the departments of Koutiala and Yorosso (both Sikasso region) from MEDIUM to HIGH following a routine review of the security environment. Activities of criminal and militant groups pose a credible risk in these areas. Tactics include bombings, banditry and armed raids on towns or security force posts. In-country staff also face a heightened risk of kidnap-for-ransom. Travel should be for essential purposes and only carried out with appropriate precautions.

We have lowered Bahrain’s travel risk rating from medium to LOW following a review of the security environment. The frequency and scale of anti-government demonstrations has decreased in recent years amid a crackdown on domestic opposition groups and the small protests that do periodically occur remain confined to the neighbourhoods on the outskirts of the capital Manama. The frequency of attacks attributed to Shia Muslim militant groups has also decreased following a notable spike in 2017. In addition, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has not significantly impacted the overall travel security environment. As a result, travel to Bahrain can continue with basic precautions.

We have changed the travel risk ratings for various areas in Cote d’Ivoire to reflect recent developments. All areas in the north of the country within 25 miles (40km) of the Burkina Faso and Mali borders (Denguele, Savanes, Zanzan districts) have been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH. The northern half of Zanzan district comprising Comoe National Park and the east of Savanes district have also been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH.

We have changed the travel risk ratings for various areas in Niger to reflect recent developments. In Tillaberi region in the west, areas within 18 miles (30km) of the Burkina Faso border have been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH, and areas within 30 miles (48km) of the border with Mali from HIGH to EXTREME. In the south-east, the rating for Diffa region has been raised to HIGH, while areas within 18 miles (30km) of the border with Borno state (Nigeria) and Lac region (Chad) have been raised to EXTREME. Meanwhile, areas in Zinder region bordering Nigeria have been lowered from HIGH to MEDIUM risk.

We have lowered our travel risk rating for Managua and Masaya departments from HIGH to MEDIUM following a thorough review of the security environment. The risk rating change is reflective of the reduced level of political unrest and associated violence, compared to what was previously observed in 2018. Travel to Managua and Masaya departments can proceed with standard precautions.

We have increased the travel risk rating of northern areas within 18 miles (30km) of the border with Burkina Faso from LOW to MEDIUM, to reflect an increasing threat of cross-border incursions by armed groups. While Ghana has no history of terrorism, the security environment in Burkina Faso has deteriorated, including in southern regions, with armed groups demonstrating the intent and capability to push further south. This raises the risk of banditry and kidnapping. Overland travel should only be undertaken during daylight hours, with appropriate journey management protocols. Travellers should maintain constant situational awareness and remain abreast of current security developments before setting out.

We have increased our travel risk rating for Burkina Faso from MEDIUM to HIGH to reflect the degradation of the security environment and the increasing threat posed by militancy and banditry. The risk rating for Oudalan, Soum (both Sahel region), and Loroum provinces (Nord region) has also been changed from HIGH to EXTREME due to the severe risks posed by militant groups based in the area and the limited capacity of the government to contain the threats. The capital Ouagadougou, as well as Bobo Dioulasso (Hauts-Bassins region), remains rated as MEDIUM risk, due to the more robust security presence in the two cities.

The travel risk rating for Mopti city (Mopti region) has been raised from High to EXTREME as part of a routine review of our risk ratings. This brings the city’s risk rating in line with the rest of Mopti region, and that of the country’s northern desert regions (Gao, Kidal, Menaka, Taoudeni and Timbuktu). Mopti city and neighbouring Sevare (Mopti) are potential locations for acts of militancy, including kidnap-for-ransom, as well as outbreaks of social unrest. All travel to these areas should be deferred due to the complex operating environment. Any journeys should be undertaken in conjunction with UN, local or international forces.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Guinea-Bissau from HIGH to MEDIUM following a routine review of the country’s security environment. The likelihood of armed intervention by the military in the political sphere has significantly decreased in recent years despite a political crisis in the country that began in 2015 and has been fuelled by international sanctions and pressure from regional blocs. Violence related to transnational crime groups is unlikely to affect foreign travellers, though drug-trafficking remains an issue. A decrease in tensions in neighbouring Casamance region (Senegal) has decreased risks associated with banditry in northern rural areas.

We have increased the travel risk rating from MEDIUM to HIGH for the provinces of Bam, Sanmatenga, Namentenga (comprising Centre-Nord region), Gnagna (located in Est region), Boulgou (Centre-Est region), Sourou, Kossi (both Boucle de Mouhon region) and Yatenga (Nord region). This follows multiple security incidents as Islamist militants infiltrate deeper into Burkina Faso from Malian and Nigerien border areas. Although security forces and local civilians remain the primary targets, foreign nationals and assets are also at risk, with militant tactics ranging from planting homemade bombs to armed attacks and kidnaps-for-ransom. Travel to the abovementioned provinces should be for essential purposes only.

We have lowered our travel risk rating for Pool department to MEDIUM from high, in light of continued progress towards ending the Ninja rebel insurgency. While some tensions persist in the region, the upholding of a ceasefire and widespread disarmament process has led to a significant improvement in the security environment. We are also raising the travel risk rating for areas within 20 miles (32km) of the border with Central African Republic (CAR) in Likouala and Sangha departments to HIGH from medium to reflect the risks posed by instability in these areas.

We are raising the travel risk rating for the capital Tripoli and Misrata city (Misrata district) from HIGH to EXTREME to reflect the deteriorating security situation in the two cities. Since the Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive to seize control of Tripoli on 4 April, fighting between the LNA and Government of National Accord (GNA) has persisted, with little prospect for a ceasefire or negotiated solution. Over 1,000 people have been killed and 5,500 others injured. Due to the potential for further violence and damage to critical infrastructure, members should continue to defer all travel to Libya.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Belize from LOW to MEDIUM following a regular review of the security environment. The change reflects a sustained increase in violent crime, particularly in more rural areas popular with foreign travellers. Petty and opportunistic crime remains the prevailing threat; however, violent crime, including homicide, robbery, home invasion and assault, increasingly affect foreign tourists and expatriates. Normal travel can continue, but members should take sensible precautions at all times and in all areas.

We have lowered the overall travel risk rating for Nicaragua from HIGH to MEDIUM following a review of the country’s security environment. The change reflects the reduced threat of political unrest, lessening potential travel disruptions. The capital Managua, as well as Masaya department, remains HIGH travel risk locations due to the heightened potential for clashes between the opposition and the pro-government paramilitaries and the security forces as well as due to the risk of crime. While normal travel to Nicaragua  may resume, extended stays in the capital and Masaya should be for essential purposes only.

We have raised the risk rating for northern areas of Togo within 18 miles (30km) of the border with Burkina Faso from MEDIUM to HIGH, to reflect an increased threat of cross-border incursions by armed and militant groups. The Togolese government has taken several measures to counter the expanding militant threat in neighbouring Burkina Faso's south-eastern and eastern areas in recent months; these include the deployment of extra security forces at borders and in urban centres. Nonetheless, members should avoid all non-essential travel to affected border regions and seek itinerary-specific advice before undertaking essential journeys there.

Following a review of the security environment in Benin, we have raised the risk rating for areas within 18 miles (30km) from the border with Burkina Faso and Niger from LOW to HIGH to reflect the threat posed by cross-border incursions by armed and militant groups. This was highlighted by the kidnapping on 1 May of two French nationals in the Pendjari National Park (Atakora department). Essential travel there requires solid journey management procedures.

We have changed the travel risk ratings for several Congo (DRC) provinces following a routine review. The travel risk ratings for South Kivu and Tanganyika provinces have been raised from HIGH to EXTREME to reflect the persistent threats posed by militia activity and communal unrest. The risk rating for Lualaba province has been lowered from HIGH to MEDIUM. Central and northern areas of the former Katanga region (namely Mitwaba, Pweto and Malemba-Nkulu) have been lowered from EXTREME to HIGH. We advise against all travel to EXTREME risk areas; essential travel to HIGH risk areas can proceed with stringent precautions.

We have lowered our travel risk rating for Islas de la Bahia department to MEDIUM from HIGH following a routine review of the security environment. The risk rating change is reflective of the lower levels of crime and associated risks there compared to mainland Honduras. Travel to Islas de la Bahia department can proceed with standard precautions; however, travel to the rest of Honduras, which is rated HIGH risk, should be for essential business purposes only.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Guanajuato state to HIGH from MEDIUM following a review of the security situation. The risk rating change is reflective of the high levels of violence in the state over the past year. Crime remains a significant issue for travellers in Mexico, including Guanajuato, and members should observe stringent security precautions at all times. 

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Chad from HIGH to MEDIUM following a routine review of the country’s security environment. An increase in military spending and foreign financial and military support have provided for broad stability. However, Borkou, Ennedi and Tibesti regions, areas within 18 miles (30km) of the borders with Central African Republic, Nigeria and Sudan and areas of Lac region located west of Bol remain HIGH risk due to rebel incursions, banditry, communal clashes and terrorism; members are reminded that travel to these areas should be for essential purposes only.

The travel risk rating for the North Caucasus republic of Chechnya has been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH to reflect the persistent threat posed by Islamist militancy. A number of terrorist-related incidents in 2017-18 marked a notable change in the region's security environment. Although the frequency and scale of attacks remain relatively low, the persistent nature of the threat in Chechnya demonstrates the need for enhanced security precautions, including comprehensive local support and logistical arrangements, as well as contingency planning. While in Chechnya, members should minimise time spent near likely terrorist targets, including security forces, government and related facilities.

The travel risk rating for the districts of Macomia, Mocimboa da Praia, Muidumbe, Nangade, Palma and Quissanga (all Cabo Delgado province) has been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH due to the increased risks from militant attacks and clashes with the security forces. Rural areas of these districts have seen a steady volume of attacks since late 2017, suspected to be perpetrated by the local Islamist militant Al-Sunnah group. Travel in the affected districts should be carried out with increased vigilance under strict journey-management protocols with the support of a local security provider.

The travel risk rating for Burundi’s Bujumbura Mairie province has been lowered from high to MEDIUM following a routine review of the security environment. This includes the capital Bujumbura. The change has not been triggered by any specific recent event, but reflects the gradual improvement in the security environment since mid-2016. Members are reminded that travel to Bubanza, Cibitoke and Bujumubura Rural provinces should be for essential purposes only. 

We have raised the travel risk rating for the states of Baja California, Colima, Tabasco and Veracruz to HIGH, due to growing security concerns in those areas. Meanwhile, we have lowered Coahuila, Durango and Nuevo Leon states' travel security risk rating to MEDIUM, following a decrease in the violent crime risks there. The changes are based on a periodic review of the security environment and reflect the level of the risks posed by organised crime and related violence in each state.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the eastern provinces of Tapoa, Komandjari, and Kompienga (all Est region) from Medium to HIGH following a review of the security environment. The change comes amid an uptick of attacks in the east and reflects the geographic spread of Sahel-based Islamist militant groups from their stronghold in northern Mali. We advise against all non-essential travel to these provinces; members should implement robust security measures when travelling to these areas.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Nicaragua from MEDIUM to HIGH following a review of the country's travel security environment. The change reflects the increased threat posed by ongoing political unrest and violence in Nicaragua. Unruly protests, associated roadblocks and travel disruption, and regular clashes between the opposition and the pro-government paramilitaries and security forces continue in the country. The security environment is highly unlikely to improve in the near-to-medium term. Members should continue to defer all non-essential travel to Nicaragua.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the capital Male and Addu City (Addu atoll) from LOW to MEDIUM following a review of the security environment. The change reflects the threat of unrest and associated disruption in these cities due to persistent political tensions. Such tensions are expected to increase ahead of the presidential polls scheduled for 23 September. Travel to Male and Addu City can continue, though it requires close monitoring of political developments. Members should liaise with local contacts to remain apprised of any planned or ongoing protests and avoid these as a precaution.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Tripoli and most of the Bekaa valley from HIGH to MEDIUM following a review of the security environment. Due to a reduction in disruptive protests, clashes between rival groups, militant attacks, and spillover violence from Syria, normal travel to these areas is possible with standard precautions. Baalbek-Hermel governorate, as well as areas within five miles (8km) of the Syrian and Israeli borders, will remain rated HIGH, to which non-essential travel should be deferred.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Mombasa (Mombasa county) from high to MEDIUM to reflect a longstanding downward trend in militant activity in the city, as well as a reduction in incidents of social unrest. Mombasa has in the past been a flashpoint for religiously motivated unrest, including sporadic, unsophisticated attacks on civilians. While a latent threat persists, militant attacks have reduced significantly in recent years. Similarly, most protests have passed without significant disruption or violence. Travel to Mombasa can continue with standard security precautions.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the Northwest and Southwest regions from Medium to HIGH following a review of the security environment. The change reflects the increased threat posed by ongoing activism by Anglophone (English-speaking) separatist groups, including insurgency, civil unrest and low-level attacks, as the central government represses dissent over the perceived marginalisation of the Anglophone minority. Travel to these regions should be for essential purposes only and undertaken with robust security arrangements.

We have added a HIGH travel risk zone along the border with Afghanistan to reflect the prevalence of illegal smuggling activity, sporadic shootings and the increased Taliban presence in areas on the Afghan side of the border. The country's overall travel risk rating remains MEDIUM, while that of the capital Ashgabat remains LOW. Travel to border regions with Afghanistan requires enhanced security precautions.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Georgia from medium to LOW to reflect the generally stable security environment in the country, with the exception of the HIGH risk breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Crime rates in Georgia have remained low due to the presence of a professional and reliable law enforcement body; incidents of social unrest, when they occur, tend to be small and pose only indirect threats to travellers. Abkhazia and South Ossetia remain HIGH risk areas.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Azerbaijan from MEDIUM to LOW to reflect the relatively benign travel security environment and the limited threats posed to travellers in the country. The crime rate in the capital Baku remains lows, and the security forces' counter-terrorism capabilities have proven effective in combating the limited threat posed by radical Islamist groups in the country. This travel risk rating change is with the exception of the areas along the border with Armenia and the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, both of which remain HIGH risk areas.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Garm and Tavildara districts (both Rasht Valley) from High to MEDIUM to reflect the generally improving security environment, bringing the region's travel risk rating in line with that of the country. Successful anti-terrorism operations have significantly reduced the capabilities of militant and organised criminal groups in the area. Travel to Garm and Tavildara districts can proceed with standard security precautions, while the risks associated with travel to Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast and the Afghan border continue to be rated as HIGH.

We have increased the travel risk rating for Mopti region, except Mopti city, from High to EXTREME following a review of the security environment and to reflect the threat posed by Islamist militant activity. This bring the central region's risk rating in line with that of the northern regions of Gao, Kidal, Menaka, Taoudeni and Timbuktu, where militant groups routinely carry out attacks targeting the security forces and to which we advise against all travel. Travel to Mopti city, which remains HIGH risk, should be for essential purposes only and undertaken with robust security arrangements.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the autonomous region of Puntland from HIGH to EXTREME to reflect the complex and fluid security environment. This change is with the exception of the coastal city of Bosaso (Bari region, Puntland), which remains at HIGH for travel risks. Across the region, there have been increasingly frequent attacks and territorial seizures by militants linked to the extremist al-Shabab and Islamic State (IS) groups and heavy clashes between regional forces in the divided city of Galkayo (Puntland and Galmudug regions). Violent crime, kidnapping, and deep-rooted tribal tensions continue to pose credible risks in Puntland. Outside Bosaso, infrastructure, emergency response, consular assistance and evacuation options remain severely limited.

Business-critical travel to Bosaso can continue with enhanced security precautions, including an itinerary-specific briefing on the prevailing threats prior to travel. Members should defer all travel to the remainder of the Puntland region.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for the capital Tripoli and the city of Misrata (Misrata district) from EXTREME to HIGH following an in-country review of the security environment. A relative lack of high-profile violent incidents, combined with the availability of professional security providers, mean that business-critical travel is possible. Members are advised to receive a pre-travel threat assessment and maintain professional, comprehensive 24/7 security support.

The travel risk rating for the rural areas of Sofala, Manica and Zambezia provinces has been lowered from high to MEDIUM due to notable improvements in security conditions in those areas. The central provinces, since late 2015, had been the areas most acutely affected by a renewed low-level armed insurgency by the Renamo armed opposition movement. Since January 2017 the situation has stabilised considerably, with almost no reports of security incidents amid continued negotiations between the government and Renamo. Travel to rural areas of the central provinces can continue with standard precautions, including sound journey management planning and vigilance.

Following a periodic review of security conditions, we have reduced the travel risk rating for the border areas with Congo (DRC) in Central, Copperbelt and Luapula provinces from Medium to LOW. The change is indicative of the generally stable security conditions in these locations, which were previously affected by more frequent developments relating to banditry and cross-border violence. In recent years there has been a steady decline in the number of reported incidents, particularly those affecting foreign nationals.

We have increased the travel risk rating for areas located within 20 miles (32km) of the Nigerian border in the Extreme North region of Cameroon from High to EXTREME following a review of the security environment and to reflect the threat posed by Islamist militant activity originating from Nigeria. Members of the Nigerian Islamist militant group Boko Haram routinely infiltrate the porous border region and carry out attacks. Members are advised to avoid all travel to these border areas.

The travel risk rating for Casamance region has been lowered from Medium to LOW to reflect the generally improving security environment, bringing the region's travel risk rating in line with that of the country. This is due to the stabilisation of the political situation in neighbouring Gambia and a calming of tensions between the authorities and the separatist Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC). Travel to the Casamance region can proceed with normal precautions during daylight hours, with adequate communications in place.

The travel risk rating for Sweden has been raised from INSIGNIFICANT to LOW to reflect the minor threat posed by crime to travellers in the country, as well as the latent terrorism threat present throughout Western Europe. The change has not been triggered by any specific recent events, but follows a routine review of the security environment. Members are advised to continue taking sensible precautions while travelling in urban centres, such as the capital Stockholm, Malmo (Skane county) and Gothenburg (Vastra Gotaland county).

We have extended our HIGH travel risk zone for border areas with Mali to encompass the departments of Téra, Tillabéri, Ouallam and Filingué in Tillabéri region. This is in response to an increase in Islamist militant attacks, especially in areas of those departments bordering Mali and Burkina Faso.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for all townships of Rakhine state except those in the far north from High to MEDIUM following a review of the travel security environment. This change brings these areas in line with the overall MEDIUM travel risk rating for Myanmar; the travel risks in the far northern townships of Buthidaung, Kyauktaw, Maungdaw, Ponnagyun and Rathedaung remain rated as HIGH. While communal tensions are high across the state, the situation has improved since the 2012 communal violence; the majority of related incidents occur in northern districts that are closer to the border with Bangladesh.

We have also noted that insurgency and associated security operations are affecting newer areas of northern, eastern and south-eastern Shan and Kachin states amid stalled peace process; the most frequently affected areas include Kokang, Keng Tung, Kunlong, Kyaukme, Lashio, Mong Hsat, and Muse districts (all Shan), and Bhamo district (Kachin). The travel risks in these insurgency-affected areas, as well as all border areas (except those bordering India), are rated as HIGH. Travel risks along the Indian border continue to be rated as MEDIUM as insurgency-related violence mostly occurs inside Indian territory and rarely affects areas in Myanmar.

We have raised from Medium to HIGH the travel risk rating for areas of Segou region, located north of the Niger river. This reflects increased insecurity and risks to travellers posed by the activities of Islamist militants, who have carried out a number of attacks in the region over the past few months and whose capacity to operate there poses a credible risk of hit-and-run, kidnap or attack targeting foreign travellers. Travel should be avoided in northern parts of Segou as a security escort may not constitute a sufficient deterrent to militants.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Turkey from low to MEDIUM; no change has been made to Istanbul (Istanbul province) and the capital Ankara. The change has been made to reflect the widening threat of terrorist and militant attacks, and the likely continuation of political challenges in the coming year. This will bring the risk rating for the country in line with Istanbul and Ankara, which remain rated as MEDIUM since January 2016. Travel to MEDIUM risk areas of Turkey can continue, but requires security precautions, including minimising time spent near potential targets for militant attacks, avoiding all public gatherings and demonstrations and ensuring that adequate security measures are in place for hotel accommodation and journey management.

Following a periodic review of our travel risk ratings, we have refined the areas rated as HIGH risk. Following a reduction in rebel activity along the Kenyan border, we have narrowed the HIGH risk area to within 18.6 miles (30km) of the border. Similarly, because of a low number of security incidents and improved co-operation between the Ethiopian and Djiboutian security forces, we no longer include Sitti (formerly known as Shinile) zone in the areas of Somalia region rated at HIGH risk. The HIGH travel risk zones are now: areas within 18.6 miles (30km) of the Eritrea border; areas in Somali region towards Somalia and Kenya; Gambella region; and areas within 18.6 miles (30km) of the Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan border.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Sofala, Manica and Zambezia provinces in central Mozambique from medium to HIGH due to the increased risks posed by guerrilla activity. These areas have been most acutely affected by a renewed escalation in conflict between Renamo and government forces. Attacks on transport and clashes between the security forces and Renamo occurred frequently throughout 2016, resulting in numerous casualties and thousands of internally displaced persons. Overland travel along both primary and secondary roads in Sofala, Manica and Zambezia provinces carries additional risks. Despite government measures, such as the imposition of armed convoy requirements along certain highways and ongoing security force operations, attacks by Renamo have persisted and violence is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.

Following a routine review of the travel security environment and our travel risk ratings for Costa Rica, we have raised the travel risk rating for the Central Valley (encompassing the capital San Jose, as well as the surrounding cantons of Alajuela, Cartago and Heredia provinces) from Low to MEDIUM. The move reflects long-term trends in the travel security environment as a result of an increased presence of drug trafficking gangs over the last two years. The travel risk rating for the Nicaraguan border region has been reduced from Medium to LOW, in line with the country's overall travel security risks. However, Limon province retains a MEDIUM travel risk rating.

The travel risk rating for Selangor state has been increased from low to MEDIUM, bringing it in line with the rating for the capital Kuala Lumpur. We continue to rate the security risks in coastal areas and island groups of eastern Sabah state and Johor Bahru (Johor state) as MEDIUM, with the rest of Peninsular and Eastern Malaysia as LOW. Malaysia's overall travel security risk rating also remains LOW.

The travel risk rating for the remote border areas has been downgraded from medium to LOW, as part of a periodic review of the travel security environment. While the areas along the Indo-China (south-west), the Russian Far East (north-east) and Central Asia (north-west) are prone to cross border smuggling and low-level incidents of banditry, such incidents are primarily confined to remote areas, limiting the exposure of foreign business travellers to such risks. The authorities also maintain robust control on access to potentially insecure areas, thus further mitigating the risk to foreign business travellers.

The travel risk rating for the non-central districts of cities in Guangdong province have been downgraded from medium to LOW, as part of a periodic review of the travel security environment. Sustained government initiatives as well as a strong police force presence has curtailed the higher levels of petty and street crime that had previously existed in the area. While criminal activity, especially pickpocketing, bag-snatching and theft of valuables such as laptops and mobile telephones, occurs with some regularity, business personnel face the same level of risk seen in other major urban centres such as the capital Beijing and Shanghai, where the travel risks are currently rated as LOW. Such opportunistic crimes primarily occur in the vicinity of public transport (on buses and in train stations) and in crowded places such as markets, tourist and entertainment or shopping areas in major cities throughout the country. Members should take basic security precautions against the risk of petty and street crime.

The travel risk rating for Maluku province has been downgraded from HIGH to MEDIUM, as part of a periodic review of the security environment. Despite the underlying potential for occasional incidents of violence between members of the local Christian and Muslim communities, the overall travel security situation in Maluku has improved considerably compared with the late 1990s and early 2000s, when Christian-Muslim clashes left several thousand killed and 70,000 people displaced. Ongoing community and security-force initiatives have helped to stabilise the province in recent years and prolonged or large-scale violence is unlikely in the foreseeable future.

We have raised the risk rating for non-Syrian border areas of Gaziantep, Hatay, Kilis, Sanliurfa provinces from Low to MEDIUM to reflect the increasing activity in these areas that has largely been a result of evolving dynamics between Turkey and actors in the Syrian civil conflict. The main rationale for the change in risk ratings is that recent events have highlighted that militant actors long known to be present in these provinces now see the main cities as areas of operation, rather than only as logistical bases for operations in Syria.

Following a routine review of the travel security environment and our travel risk ratings for Colombia, we have raised the travel risk rating for the city of Cali (Valle del Cauca department) from Medium to HIGH, and the travel risk rating for the city of Cartagena (Bolivar department) from Low to MEDIUM. This is not indicative of a sudden recent increase in incidents in these locations, but rather reflects long-term trends in their travel security environments.

As part of a regular review of our risk ratings and advice, we have raised our travel security risk rating from Medium to HIGH for border areas with Azerbaijan to reflect the risk posed by the periodic outbreaks of violence over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.

The risks posed to travellers by regular exchange of fire, including in civilian areas, has increased due to a multiplication of incidents in and around Nagorno-Karabakh in the past months. This assessment is reinforced by the uptick in violence observed on 1-5 April, highlighting deepening tensions and the fragility of the ceasefire, which is likely to be undermined by further incidents.

Following a review of the travel security environment in Argentina, we have raised the travel risk rating for the cities of Rosario and Santa Fe (both Santa Fe department) from LOW to MEDIUM. This reflects growing rates of criminality in these locations largely as a result of the increased presence of drug-trafficking groups. Normal travel to these cities, as well other areas of the country, can continue; however, travellers should undertake appropriate security precautions to mitigate potential exposure to crime.

The travel risk rating for Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Xiengkhuang provinces has been increased from low to MEDIUM. Several notable security incidents have occurred in the rural mountainous areas of these provinces since November 2015. Most recently, on 23 March unidentified gunmen opened fire on a Chinese owned passenger bus travelling between Kunming (China) and Vientiane. The incident occurred in Kasi district (Vientiane), injured six Chinese nationals. Low-level security incidents consisting of raids on security force and government outposts, ambushes of military convoys, as well as targeting both public transport and civilian private vehicles using intercity routes in the area are expected to occur with regular frequency in the coming months. The change bring Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Xiengkhuang in line with the MEDIUM risk rating for Xaysomboune province where anti-government has been particularly notable.

Mazar-e-Sharif city, Bamian, Daykundi, Jowzjan, Panjshir, Samangan, Saripul and Takhar provinces up to EXTREME

Following our recent visit to the country, we have re-evaluated Afghanistan's travel risk ratings and are now raising the travel risk rating for Mazar-e Sharif city and seven provinces from High to EXTREME, making the entire country an EXTREME travel risk area. Security conditions have become increasingly fluid and unpredictable countrywide, while the approaching Spring fighting season is highly likely to see expanding insurgency. The central, western and some northern areas have been notably less affected by militancy, but are affected by lawlessness, warlordism, very limited emergency support, entrenched corruption, crime and kidnapping risks.

The travel risk rating for Xaysomboune province has been increased from low to MEDIUM, as part of a periodic review of the security environment. A series of attacks since November 2015 highlight the re-emergence of anti-government activity as a notable factor in the travel security environment in the mountainous areas of northern Laos. The uptick in violence has been particularly notable in Xaysomboune. Several minor security incidents have also been reported in rural areas of Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Xiengkhuang provinces, though we continue to rate these provinces as LOW.

As part of a regular review of our risk ratings and advice, we have raised our travel security risk rating from Medium overall to HIGH for areas within 25 miles (40km) of the Libyan border to reflect the increased direct risks posed by the presence of Islamist militants in the border zone due to a growing influence and a potential change in strategy by the Libya-based Islamic State (IS) group.

Sporadic attacks on domestic targets such as security forces personnel and facilities are likely to continue in the short to medium term in Libyan border areas as well as associated counter-terrorism operations while further attempts to seize territory and one-off attacks on sites frequented by foreign visitors cannot be discounted.

We have raised the travel security risk rating for the capital Ankara and the commercial capital Istanbul from Low to MEDIUM, principally to account for the distinctively higher level of threat to travellers from a range of militant groups than elsewhere in the LOW travel risk zone. Istanbul and Ankara share several important features that make for comparable travel security risk environments, and recent changes in conflict dynamics between the government and both Kurdish and Islamist militant groups have increasingly exposed these cities to militancy risks. Travel to Istanbul and Ankara can continue with standard security precautions.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Burundi's Bujumbura Mairie province from Medium to HIGH to account for the persistence of politically-motivated incidents in the area, and as part of a regular review of our risk ratings and advice. The change applies to the capital Bujumbura. The frequency of anti-government attacks and the associated government crackdown on opposition neighbourhoods have elevated the immediate indirect risks for business travellers and/or expatriates in the city.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Turkey's southern border with Syria from Medium to HIGH to account for evolving risk factors that affect travel security conditions near the border, and as part of a regular review of our risk ratings and advice. The change applies to all areas within ten miles (16km) of the Syrian border in the provinces of Gaziantep, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin and Sanliurfa; the whole of Sirnak province, part of which borders Syria, was already rated as high risk. Arrests of militants and related security incidents have demonstrated the presence and operational reach of violent groups in the region, while nearby access to militant ‘safe havens' inside Syria elevate the risks associated with potential high-impact security incidents, such as kidnaps.

We have increased our travel risk rating for the Central African Republic from High to EXTREME. This is a change to how we are articulating the risk countrywide rather than reflecting any change to our assessed risk to travellers. The capital Bangui remains rated as HIGH travel risk. Previously, all areas outside Bangui were already rated as EXTREME.

We are raising the travel security risk rating for the areas west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, excluding the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and the town of Marsa Matruh, from Medium to HIGH to more accurately capture geographic differences in the threat environment in the area. We are also raising the travel security risk rating for North Sinai governorate from High to EXTREME due to the persistent risk of Islamist militancy and associated counterterrorism operations that are set to persist for the foreseeable future.

Business-critical travel to the HIGH travel risk areas remains possible with appropriate access to local knowledge and enhanced security precautions. Members should defer all but business-critical travel to North Sinai governorate, and defer all travel to areas between the border with the Gaza Strip (Palestinian Territories) and the city of El Arish (North Sinai).

We are raising the travel security risk rating for the provinces of Erzurum, Igdir and Kars from Low to MEDIUM due to prevailing low-level militancy in these areas. Turkey since late July has experienced renewed insurgency, led mainly by the ethnic-Kurdish militant Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), and launched large-scale military operations against the group in parts of the east and south-east of the country.

Several related incidents have affected Erzurum, Igdir and Kars, underscoring the presence of PKK elements in these areas and highlighting these provinces' exposure to the associated risks, which imply that their security environments are more in line with those of other parts of the south-east where travel risks are rated as MEDIUM. Members should seek itinerary-specific security briefings prior to travel to these provinces, as with most of the east and south-east of the country, and adopt enhanced precautions for intercity road journeys.

We are raising the travel security risk rating for the south-eastern provinces of Diyarbakir, Hakkari and Sirnak to HIGH as militant violence and government counter-insurgent operations have continued at heightened levels for more than a month. While a large swathe of the east and south-east of the country has been affected by the serious uptick in security incidents, these three provinces have experienced notably high rates of serious security incidents, and therefore are worth distinguishing from other parts of the region where travel risks continue to be rated as MEDIUM. Travel to the south-eastern provinces of Diyarbakir, Hakkari, and Sirnak can continue with enhanced security precautions.

We have raised our travel risk rating from Low overall, and Medium in the south and interior, to MEDIUM for the whole country, to reflect the increased direct risks posed to foreign travellers by Islamist militants, who have demonstrated their continued intent and capability to sporadically attack foreigner-frequented sites. The decision follows an assault targeting tourists at the Bardo Museum in the capital Tunis in March and an attack on 26 June on a beach at a coastal resort in Port el Kantaoui.

Several factors, including instability in neighbouring Libya, the presence of many Tunisian nationals among Islamist fighters in Iraq and Syria, some apparent weaknesses in the authorities' counter-terrorist capabilities and poverty fuelling extremism, contribute to the risk from terrorist attacks and mean that further such incidents are likely in the short-to-medium term.

We are raising the travel risk rating for areas within 18.6 miles (30km) of the country's border with Iraq from Medium to HIGH. Despite a low frequency of serious security incidents in the area, assessed security threats in the border region differ notably from other parts of the country. The area's proximity to Iraqi territories where the extremist Islamic State (IS) group retains considerable operational freedom exposes it more directly to threats than most other regions of the country.The greater potential for cross-border attacks and terrorist incidents are the primary motivation for the increase in the travel risk rating.

The travel risk rating for Aceh has been downgraded from High to MEDIUM, as part of a periodic review of the security environment. The change has been made in light of a notable reduction in the number of security-related incidents over recent years. While periodic low-level outbreaks of violence will continue to occur, such incidents will largely consist of targeted shootings of or physical assaults on rivals, posing a limited incidental risk to foreign business travellers. Violence directed at foreigners is expected to remain rare.

We are raising the travel security risk rating for areas within 18 miles (30km) of the country's border with Yemen from Medium to HIGH. Saudi Arabia's role in the international coalition that is launching airstrikes in neighbouring Yemen has increased travel security risks in the affected border areas. While there have been few if any confirmed incidents affecting Saudi Arabia since the airstrikes began five days ago, the campaign is increasing the intent of the targeted Yemeni groups to stage cross-border attacks, and the area has been heavily militarised, with travel restrictions in place in sensitive areas. As a precaution, members should defer non-essential travel to the new HIGH risk border area.

We are raising our travel risk rating for Egypt's Western Desert region from Medium to HIGH, due to the latent security threats to foreign travellers in the area. These relate to exposure to militancy and criminal activity, as well as the area's remoteness and the lack of access to emergency, security and medical services. Other key factors informing this decision include the active civil conflict in neighbouring Libya and Egypt's involvement in it; widespread smuggling activity; and a security force deployment that is broadly considered inadequate for the area's threat environment.

Due to evolving security conditions on the ground and sensitivity to Lebanon's complex confessional make-up, which informs important differences in risk on the ground, we have carried out a thorough review of how to define the HIGH travel risk zone. We are changing the risk zone to now include the Bekaa Valley and the districts of Akkar, Hasbaya and Tripoli.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the entire country to EXTREME as part of a reassessment of threats to foreign visitors, in light of recent developments relating to the capabilities of extremist militant groups active in the country, the growing potential for external military involvement, the poor outlook for conflict resolution, absence of government control across large swathes of the country, and reduced availability of accredited medical capability.

The medium-term outlook for improved security conditions in Libya is very negative. We will nonetheless monitor the environment closely in the months to assess whether our internal triggers for de-escalation have been met, allowing a resumption of travel to any part of the country as the security environment continues to evolve. We currently advise against all travel to Libya and for those in the country to depart.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Kharkiv province from High to MEDIUM. This is due to the relative stability observed in the province in recent months and due to our assessment that a contagion of violence beyond the HIGH risk neighbouring provinces of Donetsk and Luhansk is unlikely. A deterioration of the security situation in Kharkiv on par with Donetsk and Luhansk is therefore assessed as unlikely.

We have raised our travel risk rating for the Donetsk and Luhansk regions from High to EXTREME due to the resumption of intense fighting in these provinces and the acute risk posed by the indiscriminate shelling of civilian areas. The security environment quickly deteriorated following a renewed rebel offensive against Donetsk airport. We expect continued heightened tensions and further violence in the short to medium term.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Venezuela from medium to HIGH due to pervasive violent crime and insecurity, critical scarcities of basic goods, and increasing violent unrest. We expect violent unrest to further increase in the short to medium term.

Following a period of sustained armed conflict between Islamist militias and forces under the control of former general Khalifa Haftar, we are raising the travel risk rating for the north-eastern Benghazi, Butnan, Derna, Jabal al-Akhdar, Marj and al-Wahat districts from High to EXTREME. Members travelling to this bloc of districts face direct threats from kidnapping and other violent crimes, incidental exposure to persistent conflict waged with heavy weaponry, greater militancy threats than elsewhere in Libya and a severe lack of egress options due to the prolonged closure of the area's main international airport, Benghazi's Benina International (BEN).

We have raised the travel risk rating for al-Mahrah, Hodeidah, Ibb, Mawhit, Raymah and Taiz provinces from High to EXTREME. This has been done as part of a reassessment of threats to members at the national level following expansion of the geographical scope of hostile actions being taken by the Shia Muslim al-Houthi movement. The uncertainty surrounding future security conditions in Yemen is the primary driver of this change. We will continue to monitor developments closely in the months ahead as circumstances may demand reassessment of geographical distinctions in risk ratings and travel advice as the security environment continues to evolve.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Bas-Congo province from High to MEDIUM as generally low rates of violent crime and militancy pose only a limited threat to travellers. The change has been made on the basis of a periodic review of the security environment in the province. Militancy does not pose a threat to travellers, as the province has enjoyed greater peace and stability in recent years. Levels of petty and violent crime are generally low compared to the capital Kinshasa.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the north-eastern region of Puntland from Extreme to HIGH. Security incidents are less frequent than in south-central Somalia, regional presidential elections passed in January without severe disruption or major incident and providers are generally able to offer secure escorts for clients travelling in both urban and rural areas. Travel security threats in Puntland nevertheless remain serious.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Chechnya, North Ossetia and Karachaevo Cherkessia from High to MEDIUM and lowered Dagestan from Extreme to HIGH. Ingushetia and Kabardino-Balkaria continue to be rated as HIGH risk. The decision to lower the travel risk rating for Chechnya, North Ossetia and Karachaevo Cherkessia is due to a reduced threat environment. The frequency of militant attacks and organised crime-related violence has decreased over recent years, which combined with stronger security force capabilities to clamp down on the threat, has brought relatively increasing stability. Similarly, the rating for Dagestan has been lowered due to a slight improvement in the security situation to the extent that the risks are now more aligned with our definition of a High risk area, as opposed to Extreme.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the Karamoja sub-region (Northern region) from High to MEDIUM due to a gradual improvement in the security environment. This change brings Karamoja in line with the overall MEDIUM travel risk rating for Uganda. The sub-region was previously undermined by high levels of militia activity, including cattle rustling and banditry, however we have observed a reduction in the threat following a largely successful disarmament programme accompanied by community peace-building initiatives since 2013.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the remote areas bordering Somalia from Extreme to HIGH due to the changing nature of the threat posed by militant groups. Our information suggests that while the threat in the remote border areas has diluted, militants have simultaneously expanded their area of operations to the counties at large and made tactical shifts towards clandestine attacks utilising local sympathisers rather than relying on Somali territory as a safe haven. Members visiting such areas are required to exercise heightened security precautions and they should seek comprehensive itinerary-specific advice from their nearest Assistance Centre prior to travel.

We have raised Yemen's overall travel risk rating from High to EXTREME to reflect the very unstable and insecure travel environment in the country, the wide range of threats foreign visitors face and the persistent lawlessness that shows no sign of improving. Two HIGH travel risk zones will remain: the far-eastern province of al-Mahrah; and a group of five western provinces (Hodeidah, Ibb, Mawhit, Raymah and Taiz), areas that have witnessed notably lower incident rates than elsewhere but nonetheless remain quite insecure. We advise against travel to the EXTREME travel risk provinces with the exception of the capital Sanaa, where journeys remain possible with stringent security precautions.

We have raised our travel risk rating for El Salvador from Medium to HIGH, due to the increase in violent crime in recent months. The transnational Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and Barrio 18 gangs operate freely throughout the country and collectively have over 20,000 members. Violent crime is endemic throughout the country and gang infiltration is common. The capital San Salvador ranks as the 27th most violent city in the world with a homicide rate of 44 per 100,000 inhabitants. Homicide rates have continued to rise in 2014, and increased by 44% between January and the end of March. There were more than 360 murders reported in May, with 81 occurring over a single weekend in San Salvador.

We have raised the travel risk rating from Medium to HIGH for the eastern regions of Donetsk, Luhansk and Kharkiv. This is due to a further deterioration of the travel security environment, particularly in Donetsk that has witnessed a notable increase in security incidents and a further significant weakening of the rule of law in the past few days, renewed Russian military exercises across the border with eastern Ukraine, and a significant shift in political rhetoric by Russia. This raises the likelihood for a further and sudden deterioration of the security environment, justifying the increase in the travel risk rating.

We have lowered the travel risk rating from High to MEDIUM for the islands of Socotra. The islands' travel security environment is distinct from the rest of Yemen, and the issues and security dynamics that plague the rest of the country are largely absent there. There is an absence of actors that pose a threat to security on Socotra; while this means that it is a more benign security environment, infrastructure is very underdeveloped, emergency services are poor and the unregulated natural environment can pose safety hazards. Nevertheless, the prolonged period without any notable incidents affecting the travel security environment justifies the reduction in the risk rating.

As part of a periodic review of the security environment, we have revised our travel risk ratings for parts of central and eastern India:

The travel risk rating for the northern areas of Andhra Pradesh state has been downgraded from high to MEDIUM. The entire state is now rated as a MEDIUM travel risk destination, in line with India's overall travel risk rating.

The travel risk rating for certain eastern districts of Maharashtra state has been downgraded from high to MEDIUM. Garhchiroli and Gondiya districts are now the only districts in the state that retain their HIGH travel risk rating.

The travel risk rating for parts of Odisha (Orissa) state has been increased from medium to HIGH. The districts of Angul, Balangir, Bargarh, Bauda, Deogarh, Dhonkanal, Gajapati, Jajpur, Kalahandi, Keonjhar, Koraput, Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri, Nabarangapur, Nuapada, Phulbani, Rayagada, Sambalpur and Sonapur are now rated as HIGH travel risk destinations. The coastal districts of Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Bhubaneshwar, Cuttack, Ganjam, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Nayagarh, and Puri continue to be rated as MEDIUM travel risk destinations.

The travel risk rating for the western districts of West Bengal state has been downgraded from high to MEDIUM. The entire state is now rated as a MEDIUM travel risk destination, in line with India's overall travel risk rating.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the states of Jonglei, Unity and Upper Nile from High to EXTREME because of persistent risks related to armed conflict, lawlessness, looting and shortages of essential provisions and services. The destruction of infrastructure and lack of emergency response capacities further justify the increase in the travel risk rating for these states.

We have raised the country travel risk rating from Low to MEDIUM due to the escalating security situation linked to the ongoing, three-month long anti-government protest campaign. Violence has intensified in the capital Kyiv, and protest activity, some of which has turned violent, has become more frequent in the regions. Although we judge that foreign travellers are still unlikely to be directly targeted, the indiscriminate and more regular use of live ammunition and other weapons poses significant security risks to anyone in the vicinity of the flashpoint areas, and movement restrictions continue to be liable to hinder travel.

The travel risk rating for the Upper Huallaga valley (Huánuco and San Martín departments) has been downgraded from High to MEDIUM, bringing it in line with the rest of the country, due to a sustained decline in guerrilla activity.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Chiquimula, Petén, Zacapa and Izabal departments from medium to HIGH, due to increased violence in these areas, where the murder rates are significantly higher than elsewhere in the country. Rival gangs are fighting for control of drug-trafficking routes in these departments, which have reportedly been infiltrated by Mexican cartels such as Los Zetas. While drug-related violence is usually restricted to lower income areas and suburbs which business travellers are unlikely to need to visit, visitors risk being caught in crossfire during gunfights in public areas. Furthermore, many criminals are armed and will not hesitate to use violence if they encounter resistance.

We have increased the travel risk rating for rural areas from High to EXTREME in light of a recent deterioration of the security environment. Personnel should continue to avoid all travel outside the capital Bangui due to increased rebel activity, militia violence and high levels of crime. The security environment has improved modestly in Bangui since January 2014 due to peacekeeping and disarmament operations conducted by French and African MISCA troops.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the capital Kyiv to MEDIUM from Low due to persistent anti-government protests and a recent escalation of violence in the city centre. Foreign personnel are unlikely to be directly targeted during clashes between anti-government demonstrators and the security forces. However, tough crowd-control measures, as well as the use of live ammunition, by the security forces, and the throwing of projectiles such as petrol bombs and stones by protesters, pose serious security risks to any personnel in the vicinity of known flashpoint areas.

The travel risk rating for areas bordering Cote d'Ivoire has been reduced from High to MEDIUM, thereby aligning it with the country's overall risk rating, as part of a periodic review of the local security environment. This reflects a normalisation of the security situation in the region, which is attributable to several factors, including UN-bolstered efforts to boost security and monitor the border and an improvement in the security environment on the Ivorian side of the border.

We have increased our travel risk rating for insurgency-affected areas in northern and eastern Kachin and northern Shan state from medium to HIGH, as part of a periodic review of the security environment.

We have also increased the travel risk rating for Rakhine state from medium to HIGH in light of prevailing tensions between the majority Rakhine Buddhists and the minority Rohingiya Muslim population, which frequently devolve into communal riots that pose a serious incidental risk to those in the vicinity.

The travel risk rating for coastal areas of eastern Sabah state, including the districts of Beluran, Kinabatangan, Kudat, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Pitas, Sandakan, Semporna and Tawau, has been increased from low to MEDIUM, as part of a periodic review of the security environment. The change has been made in light of an increased risk of spillover violence linked to instability in south-western Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago (both Philippines).

The travel risk rating for the south-western border with Burundi has been reduced from medium to LOW, as part of a periodic review of the security environment. The change has been made in light of a reduced risk of spillover violence linked to instability in north-western Burundi.

Following a routine review of the travel security environment we have decide to reduce the overall travel risk rating for San Marino from Low to INSIGNIFICANT. The country's travel infrastructure is developed and facilities for foreign travellers are widely available. We consider the security environment to be benign and the overwhelming majority of visits to the country are trouble-free. Nevertheless, personnel should continue to observe basic precautions to mitigate the risk of opportunistic and petty crime which exists in all countries, including those where the travel risks are rated as INSIGNIFICANT.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Mombasa (Coast province) from medium to HIGH due to heightened conditions for unrest, separatist and militant attacks, as well as the prevailing risks posed by crime. The reviewed travel risk rating brings Mombasa in line with the capital Nairobi, northern districts of Rift Valley (north-west of Isiolo), northern districts of Eastern (north-east of Isiolo), Coast (north of Malindi) and North-Eastern provinces that are also rated as HIGH. The remainder of the country continues to be rated as MEDIUM travel risk while the remote border areas with Somalia in North-Eastern province remain EXTREME.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Tanzania from low to MEDIUM, due to the gradual emergence of a number of security issues – including underlying political and religious tensions, crime and social unrest. The risks associated with crime, and particularly violent crime, represent the primary security concern for travellers. However, religious and political tensions, as well as social unrest, are other factors informing this change.

We have increased the travel risk rating for Syrian border areas of Hatay province from Medium to HIGH in view of the growing frequency of serious security incidents linked to spillover violence from the civil conflict in Syria. Such incidents include cross-border clashes, bombings and weapons smuggling as well as a continuing flow of refugees into the province, which has increased tensions with the local population and heightened the risk of unrest.

We have lowered the travel risk rating from high to MEDIUM to reflect an improvement in the security situation in main areas frequented by business travellers in central and southern regions. We have reduced the travel risk rating for western border areas (Moyen-Cavally, Dix-Huit Montagnes and north-west of Bas-Sassandra) from Extreme to HIGH; the threat from militia activity has become less acute over the past year and the authorities have increased the security force presence in the region. However, banditry remains a concern and the area is subject to temporary outbreaks of ethnic violence. The travel risk rating for the north (Bafing, Worodougou, Vallée du Bandama, Zanzan, Savanes and Denguélé) remains HIGH due to the credible risks to travellers from banditry in rural areas.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Morelos state from medium to HIGH to reflect its deteriorating security environment due to the activities of organised criminal groups. Rising rates of murders, robberies, kidnaps and extortion pose a credible risk to foreign personnel. The change has not been triggered by any specific recent events, but undertaken following a routine review of the state's security environment and in light of the fact that a significant improvement in the situation is unlikely in the short-to-medium term. Personnel are reminded to seek itinerary- and profile-specific advice prior to travel.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the capital Abuja from high to MEDIUM, to reflect an increase in the willingness and capacity of the authorities, over the past year, to mitigate the risks posed by Islamist militant activity through enhanced security measures, as well as the continued moderation in crime levels in the city compared to the rest of the country. While there remains a risk of attacks by Islamist militants on foreign or domestic targets in the city, incidents are likely to remain sporadic.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the peripheral areas of Bujumbura from high to MEDIUM, aligning these locations with the rest of the city, as violent crime in peripheral suburbs poses only a moderate risk to foreign travellers. The change has been made on the basis of a periodic review of the security environment in the city.

Following a routine review of the travel security environment we have decide to reduce the overall travel risk rating for San Marino from Low to INSIGNIFICANT. The country's travel infrastructure is developed and facilities for foreign travellers are widely available. We consider the security environment to be benign and the overwhelming majority of visits to the country are trouble-free. Nevertheless, personnel should continue to observe basic precautions to mitigate the risk of opportunistic and petty crime which exists in all countries, including those where the travel risks are rated as INSIGNIFICANT.

We have increased the travel risk rating for Pool region from Medium to HIGH, as continued insecurity and violent crime, especially roadside banditry, pose a significant threat to travellers in the area. The change has been made on the basis of a periodic review of the security environment in the country.

We have increased the travel risk rating for North Sinai governorate from medium to HIGH, as a result of a gradual deterioration in the security environment. Islamist militancy has increased in the governorate, aided by an increase in weapons supply and poor security provision. In addition, the imposition of travel restrictions by the authorities is common.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the regions of Anosy (except its capital Fort Dauphin and nearby areas) and Atsimo-Atsinanana from medium to HIGH, in light of rising banditry involving cattle rustlers (‘dahalo') in the south-eastern rural areas. After a lull since early 2013 following an anti-dahalo military operation, several attacks involving cattle rustlers have occurred in May 2013.

On the basis of a periodic review of the security environment, we have reclassified risk zones in eastern DRC and in the Katanga province. Due to increased rebel activity in recent months, we have increased the Travel risk rating from high to EXTREME in the Mitwaba, Pweto, Manono and Malemba-Nkulu areas (central Katanga). We have also lowered the risk rating in southern Katanga (Kolwezi district and south of Haut-Katanga district) from high to MEDIUM, in light of continued consolidation of the security environment in this part of the province. The risk rating for Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, is reduced from Extreme to HIGH, to reflect improvement to the security situation in the city. The risk rating is meanwhile increased from High to EXTREME in the Ituri district of the Orientale province (except the capital Bunia) in light of significant rise of rebel activity in the district's rural areas since mid-2012. We advise against all travel to North Kivu (except Goma) and Ituri (except Bunia).

We have raised the travel risk rating for Israel's border area with Syria from low to MEDIUM, owing to the risk posed by spillover violence from the ongoing civil conflict in neighbouring Syria. The risk rating change is due to increasing instability in the border area with Syria near the demilitarised zone (DMZ), arising from an intensification of fighting between Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces and rebel groups, which has resulted in sporadic and small-scale security incidents affecting the Golan Heights since November 2012. We advise against non-essential travel along, as well as east of, Route 98, which runs along the DMZ.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for the city of Hargeisa (self-proclaimed independent state of Somaliland) to MEDIUM from high. The capability of the local security forces contributes significantly to the generally stable security environment in the city. Crime continues to pose a hazard – particularly at night, and we advise personnel to travel in daylight where possible – and there is a latent risk of terrorism. However, the threat posed by other direct security risks is lower than in other areas of Somaliland, where the risks remain rated as HIGH, and certainly significantly lower than in greater Somalia, where the risks remain rated as EXTREME.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for Northern and Eastern provinces from high to MEDIUM, bringing them in line with country's overall travel risk rating. Aggressive counter-insurgency operations over the past four years have significantly diminished the threat posed by remnants of the separatist guerrilla Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), which was militarily defeated in 2009. Unresolved ethnic tensions in the area are more likely to manifest themselves in the form of periodic small-scale demonstrations, rather than militant attacks. The authorities have largely lifted restrictions on travel and logistical difficulties associated with travel to the provinces have eased. A heavy military presence remains, and personnel should carry identification at all times to expedite passage through security checkpoints. Landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain a concern in rural areas.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for Burundi's Bujumbura Rural province from extreme to HIGH, to reflect the improvement observed in the security environment since the National Liberation Forces group was officially disarmed in April 2009. Banditry and road traffic accidents now present the main risks to foreign visitors in Bujumbura Rural province, where essential travel should be undertaken with solid journey management planning and only within daylight hours.

We have raised North Korea's overall travel risk rating from low to MEDIUM, in view of various enduring restrictions on movement, as well as limited avenues of recourse should foreigners encounter legal or other problems. The risk rating change reflects long-standing travel implications, and therefore has not necessitated a change in our travel advice. However, given the unique circumstances and practical difficulties associated with travel in North Korea, we recommend that personnel seek profile- and itinerary-specific advice from their nearest Assistance Centre prior to travel.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the state of Veracruz from high to MEDIUM, reflecting a sustained decrease in violence over the past several quarters. The change has been implemented based on a periodic review of the security environment in the region and has not been triggered by any specific event. Travellers should continue to maintain caution as petty and opportunistic crime remain a significant risk.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the provinces of El Kef and Siliana from low to MEDIUM, to reflect the potential for outbreaks of social unrest to affect travel and pose incidental risks. El Kef, which is adjacent to Siliana, is also vulnerable to security issues stemming from its position at the Algerian border and the presence of a vocal Islamist Salafist community.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the Caprivi strip from medium to LOW, thereby aligning it with the rest of the country, due to the gradual dissolution in secessionist sentiment and decreased risks posed by banditry in the region. The foremost issue for travellers visiting the enclave concerns the risks associated with road travel.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the capital Bangui from medium to HIGH, in light of the lawlessness and security vacuum resulting from the overthrow of President François Bozizé by the rebel coalition Séléka. Prospects for a swift improvement in the security situation are poor. While the rebel leadership has vowed to restore order, this process is likely to be hampered by the power vacuum and political uncertainty. A prolonged political impasse may also have an economic impact on the capital, which would increase the likelihood of social unrest.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for Constantine city from high to MEDIUM, to reflect the security forces' capacity to contain unrest and the terrorist threat that puts it in the northern part of the MEDIUM risk zone. No terrorist incidents have been recorded in the city over the past few years and the main risks facing business personnel are petty crime and occasional outbreaks of social unrest. Separately, the ‘southern oil-producing areas' in the MEDIUM risk zone have been redefined as ‘oil- and gas-producing areas in Adrar, Tamanrasset, Illizi, Ouargla and Ghardaia provinces'.

We have increased Sudan's overall travel risk rating from low to MEDIUM, in view of a range of issues affecting different areas of the country. The most prominent trend affecting foreign nationals is a gradual rise in protest activity affecting the capital Khartoum. The risk rating change has not necessitated a significant change in our travel advice, though given the diverse risk environment in Sudan we recommend that personnel seek itinerary-specific advice prior to travel.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Cali from high to MEDIUM, as violent crime in the city poses only a moderate risk to foreign travellers. While Cali continues to have the highest homicide rate in Colombia, most murders occur in low-income areas and the main risks to business travellers are posed by petty and opportunistic street crime. The change has been made on the basis of a periodic review of the security environment in the city.

We have lowered our travel risk rating for the states of Baja California and Sonora from high to MEDIUM, reflecting a reduction in violent crime in these regions. While travellers to Sonora and Baja California continue to face the risk of petty and opportunistic crime, the threat of incidental exposure to shoot-outs in public places is lower than in states where the travel risks are rated as HIGH.

We have also raised the travel risk rating for the states of Jalisco, Michoacán and Mexico from medium to HIGH, reflecting the growing security concerns in these areas. As a result of the continued spread of violence in the country, travellers are advised to seek expert itinerary- and profile-specific advice prior to departure.

We have lowered our overall country travel risk rating from high to MEDIUM after the largely peaceful 4 March election cycle. In the immediate term personnel can continue normal travel but should exercise caution and monitor developments due to an ongoing dispute over the legitimacy of the polls and an expected court case that contests the results. Travellers should also note that large areas of the country have retained a heightened risk status, and personnel should familiarise themselves with these areas and the associated threats.

We have reduced our travel risk rating for Sierra Leone from high to MEDIUM to reflect improvements in the security environment since the presidential election in 2007, which saw sustained and widespread political violence. Significant, if slow, progress has been made since the end of the civil conflict in 2002 in reintegrating former combatants, better training the security forces and fighting political violence. This was reflected in the largely orderly presidential election in November 2012. The main risks facing travellers are now crime and road traffic accidents, resulting from poor road infrastructure and driving standards. Commonsense precautions are still required.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Honduras from medium to HIGH to reflect the country's persistently high levels of violent crime, which we expect will continue throughout 2013. Travellers are advised to seek advice security prior to travel in the country. The change has been implemented based on a periodic review of the security environment and is not triggered by any specific recent event.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the provinces of Aden, Dali, Lahj and southern Shabwa from extreme to HIGH as a result of the evolving security environment in the south. Although foreigners continue to face both direct and indirect risks as a result of militancy, crime, kidnapping and southern separatist violence in these areas, the widespread lawlessness and increased direct risks that characterised the latter part of 2012 have lessened in these areas. Nevertheless, travel should be for essential purposes only. The risk rating for Abyan and Bayda provinces remains EXTREME, as these locations remain subject to high levels of militancy and associated military operations.

We have extended our HIGH travel risk rating for the Ene and Apurímac river valleys (VRAE) to include the Mantaro river valley following the authorities' decision to extend their anti-guerrilla operations due to increased Shining Path (SL) rebel group activity. The area – now known as VRAEM – and the Upper Huallaga Valley (Huánuco, San Martín departments) are considered HIGH risk zones due to infiltration by SL members and other criminal elements, who have kidnapped travellers, blocked roads and engaged in gunfights with government forces.

We have raised our travel risk rating for the northern border areas with Syria from low to MEDIUM due to persistent clashes between government and rebel forces on the Syrian side of the border, which have the potential to spill over into Jordan, particularly in the vicinity of the border crossings at Ramtha (Irbid governorate) and Jaber (Mafraq governorate). The risk zone also includes the Ramtha and Zaatari (Mafraq) refugee camps, where poor living conditions regularly lead to unrest, which has previously targeted foreign nationals.

We have raised Kenya's overall travel risk rating for the election cycle from medium to HIGH, due to the increased risks associated with the 4 March national polls. The risk rating increase is not an indication of any specific or imminent threat to travellers, but the credible potential for localised violence resulting from political dynamics associated with the polls. Travel to Kenya can continue, though visitors should be alert to the additional security risks associated with the elections and exercise a high degree of caution at all times and in all areas.

Due to a gradual increase in incidents of crime and the recurrent outbreak of social unrest, we have raised our travel risk rating for the commercial capital Dar es Salaam from low to MEDIUM. The majority of reported crimes against foreign travellers include muggings, residential burglaries, express kidnappings and opportunistic crime. Incidents of social unrest generally have less of an impact on foreigners but violent demonstrations, particularly by religious groups and students, can occasionally degenerate into localised rioting.

The travel risk rating for Macedonia has been reduced from medium to LOW to reflect the improvement in the security environment. The principal concerns for business personnel relate to the dangers of road travel and language difficulties when dealing with the authorities during an incident. Crime levels are low, as is the risk of terrorism. Relations between the large ethnic Albanian minority and the majority ethnic Macedonian population have improved, though sporadic low-level inter-ethnic violence remains possible. The risks to business personnel from such activity are primarily incidental.

The travel risk rating for central areas of Damascus has been raised from High to EXTREME. This change reinforces our advice to defer all travel to Syria and for in-country personnel to depart. The security environment in the capital continues to deteriorate as rebel fighters enhance their capability to conduct raids in the city. In recent weeks the rebels have increasingly targeted areas that were once firmly under government control, including checkpoints near Damascus International Airport (DAM), from strongholds in the city's suburbs. Clashes in the vicinity of the airport have the potential to close the Damascus Airport Highway and may lead to disruption to air traffic; direct attacks cannot be ruled out if the government uses the airport for military purposes. The safety of personnel remaining in the city is under additional threat due to the limited prospect of projecting support there.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for Zimbabwe from High to MEDIUM due to a decrease in levels of political violence, crime and social unrest. The principal concerns to travelling personnel are related to criminality, the dangers associated with road travel and obstructionist or intrusive behaviour on the part of the authorities.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Borno state from High to EXTREME to reflect the risks posed to business personnel by a broad deterioration in the state's security environment prompted both by Islamist sect Boko Haram's sustained militant campaign and an associated rise in criminality.

We have raised our travel risk rating for the country's eastern Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO) from medium to HIGH. The change reflects the chronic instability in the region as demonstrated by recent developments, notably the military operation in the province's regional capital of Khorog in July-August. The operation was carried out in pursuit of several former warlords with alleged links to organised crime, and who were accused of killing a senior security official.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the northern city of Tripoli (North province) from medium to HIGH. Clashes between the rival neighbourhoods of Alawite Muslim majority Jabal Mohsen and Sunni Muslim majority Bab al-Tabbaneh can lead to a rapid deterioration of the security environment around the city. The nearby Nahr al-Bared refugee camp has been used as a base for Sunni militants and clashes with the security forces can spill over into Tripoli. In addition, high crime rates by regional standards and demonstrations over the situation in Syria can pose additional risks to personnel.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Mauritius from Insignificant to LOW to reflect the limited, but not negligible, risks posed by crime – including armed robberies – and the need to adopt appropriate precautions.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the northern provinces of Oudalan, Soum and Loroum, which border northern Mali, from Medium to HIGH due to the credible risk of incursions by Mali-based Islamist militants. These groups have previously kidnapped foreigners and carried out terrorist attacks in the Sahel region.

We are raising our travel risk rating for Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, from High to EXTREME, thereby aligning it with the rating for the rest of the province. The insurgency launched by the M23 rebel group has led to a deterioration in the security situation in the city and the expected continuation of this conflict, combined with the authorities' limited capacity to mitigate associated risks, augurs future security challenges.

We have reduced our overall travel risk rating for Mayotte (France) from medium to LOW, to reflect improvements in travel conditions. The island has a largely benign security environment, despite a potential for occasional youth-led unrest. The impact of such unrest is largely mitigated by the security force presence and mostly confined to low-income districts of main cities.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Saada province from Extreme to HIGH. Violence between the rebel al-Houthi group and government forces is now uncommon in Saada. With the rebel group firmly in control of the security environment – including maintaining checkpoints –, the area is less hazardous than in the past and essential travel can resume.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Laventille and Beetham areas, located on the eastern outskirts of Port-of-Spain, from Medium to HIGH due to elevated rates of violent crime. Both Laventille and Beetham are impoverished suburbs with significantly higher murder rates than the rest of the city. Widespread poverty, easy access to firearms, poor policing and presence of dangerous criminal gangs all contribute to the poor security environment.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for Bamenda (North-West province) from High to MEDIUM to reflect a reduction in the risk of politically motivated unrest since the October 2011 presidential election. The polls have not been followed by significant incidents, despite the presence of an Anglophone separatist group and opposition activism. Commonsense security precautions can mitigate the risks posed by crime, which are lower than in the commercial hub of Douala (Littoral province).

We have raised the travel risk rating for Limón province to MEDIUM, due to the continued high levels of violent crime in the region. The change has been made following a review of the security environment; throughout 2011, Limón province continued to have a significantly higher rate of violent crime than the rest of the country. Personnel travelling to the city of Limón, as well as other urban areas in the province, should maintain heightened situational awareness in order to minimise the risk of falling victim to crime.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Ayacucho from High to MEDIUM, bringing it in line with the country's overall travel risk rating. While Ayacucho was the birthplace of the Maoist rebel group Shining Path (SL), the group now has an active presence in only limited areas of the department, which fall within the Apurímac and Ene river valleys (VRAE) and where the travel risks are rated as HIGH. Personnel are advised to seek itinerary- and profile-specific advice prior to travel to HIGH risk areas.

We have reduced the travel risk rating for the Sudanese border from Extreme to HIGH to reflect a reduction of the risks posed by rebel groups in the region following the sustained improvement of relations between Chad and Sudan since a January 2010 peace deal. Armed clashes along the border have subsided as a result of reduced rebel activity and an increased security force presence mitigates the risks posed by armed bandits. However, residual lawlessness, poor infrastructure and limited state security support contribute to a HIGH travel risk rating for border areas.

The travel risk rating for the northern and eastern border areas with Syria (North, Bekaa governorates) has been raised from medium to HIGH. Security incidents have become increasingly common along the Syrian frontier following the outbreak of civil war in that country. Border areas regularly witness security incidents including cross-border shelling, incursions by Syrian military forces, kidnapping and sectarian violence. As the security environment in Syria continues to deteriorate, further and potentially more intense occurrences of violence are likely, posing significant incidental risks to any personnel caught up in the vicinity.

We have expanded our EXTREME risk zone in southern Yemen to include the provinces of Aden, Lahj, al-Dhalie and Abyan, as well as southern areas of al-Bayda and Shabwa provinces, owing to the geographical spread of Islamist militancy combined with southern separatist activity. The movement of Islamist militants, both in the areas identified as EXTREME for travel risks and outside of that zone, is likely to remain fluid and the threat posed by their activities will continue to evolve in the coming months.

We have lowered the overall travel risk rating for Libya to HIGH from EXTREME. This brings the whole country in line with the rating for northern coastal areas, including the two largest cities – the capital Tripoli and Benghazi (Benghazi province) – which remain rated as HIGH. The situation in the remote desert areas of the country remains unstable, with locations subject to unpredictable changes in the security environment, particularly in the event that local disputes escalate into serious violence. However, such incidents do not have a direct impact on foreign nationals and the risks posed – though potentially considerable – are incidental. The situation in major urban areas also remains fluid and the capital Tripoli and Benghazi (Benghazi province) have witnessed an increase in militant and criminal activities in recent months. Foreigners may face direct risks associated with such developments. Personnel are advised that all travel to Libya should be for essential purposes only, and subject to itinerary-specific security precautions.

We have raised our travel risk rating for the northern city of Aleppo (Aleppo governorate) to EXTREME from high, due to the start on 8 August of a ground offensive by government forces in the city. The change is motivated by continuing clashes between rebel and government forces that involve the use of heavy weapons in urban areas. The deterioration in the security environment in the city has further reduced the highly limited capability for the provision of support to personnel. The availability of basic commodities and provision of essential services, including water, electricity and communications, has also been substantially reduced.

We have raised the travel risk rating in areas of Hatay, Kilis, Gaziantep and Sanliurfa provinces near the Syrian border from LOW to MEDIUM, due to the deteriorating security environment in neighbouring Syria. Restrictions have been put in place for travel across the shared frontier, delaying travel, while a military build-up in the vicinity of the border may also hamper overland movement. Additionally, the influx of Syrian refugees has placed a strain on resources and tensions in refugee camps occasionally trigger violent protests.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for Central Sulawesi from HIGH to MEDIUM, bringing the province in line with the country's overall travel risk rating. Although Central Sulawesi was badly affected by communal violence between 1997 and 2002, ongoing community and security-force initiatives have helped to stabilise the region in recent years. The main risks to foreigners and expatriates in Central Sulawesi – as with the country as a whole – stem from both violent and non-violent crime, Islamist militant attacks targeting state symbols, and intermittent protests by local residents.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for border areas with Sudan to HIGH from EXTREME. This is due to the recent resumption of negotiations with Sudan over the range of contentious border issues that had initiated an escalation of hostilities in April. While this lessens the potential for further conflict in the border area, the potential for localised outbreaks of fighting, particularly between rebel groups, cannot be discounted. As such, personnel are advised that travel to border areas should be for business-critical purposes only.

We have raised our overall travel risk rating for Nigeria to HIGH, from medium to reflect a multi-faceted deterioration in the security environment over the past year which has increased risks to personnel outside traditional hotspots such as the Niger delta and the north-east. A major factor of insecurity is the evolving threat posed by the northern-based, but geographically expanding, Islamist militant sect Boko Haram. Crime of an often violent nature, which is the main risk facing business travellers, has contaminated further regions while ethno-religious and communal antagonism remain a source of localised violence.

We have increased the travel risk rating for the north-eastern part of the country, comprising Gao, Kidal and Timbuktu regions, from HIGH to EXTREME. This reflects the increased risks from lawlessness, Islamist militant activity and conflict posed by the collapse of government and military authority as a result of the takeover of the region by ethnic-Tuareg separatist rebels of the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad, with support from an Islamist rebel faction, Ansar Dine. Elements of the transnational al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (QIM) militant group, which has a clear anti-Western agenda, are also present in the region, posing significant direct risks to foreign personnel in the absence of military oversight.

We have increased the travel risk rating for Mopti region from MEDIUM to HIGH. This results from the region's proximity to rebel-held northern areas – Mopti city is located 176 miles (280km) south-east of Timbuktu – and the associated risk of rebel incursions or attacks on the security forces. In addition, foreign personnel face a credible risk of kidnaps by Islamist militants or their affiliates who may launch hit-and-run raids from their bases further north.

We have increased the travel risk rating for Kano state from MEDIUM to HIGH. The state is within the reach of the Islamist extremist sect Boko Haram, which carried out lethal and audacious co-ordinated terrorist raids in its capital in January 2012 and several attacks on the police since. As such, Kano is among the states at risk from the sect's terrorist activities which, despite being focused on the security forces, pose significant incidental risks due to Boko Haram's use of explosives and the evolving nature of its targeting patterns.

The travel risk rating for the city of San Pedro Sula (Cortés department) has been raised to HIGH from MEDIUM following a review of the security situation. The risk rating change is reflective of the high levels of violent crime over the past year, and not of a sudden deterioration of the security environment. Violent and opportunistic crime is common in the city and poses a credible threat to foreign travellers and local personnel.

We have reduced the country's overall travel risk rating from MEDIUM to LOW. The uncertainty prompted by the January 2011 revolution has gradually given way to a relatively orderly political transition. Political and social upheaval, as well as the partial demobilisation of the former security apparatus, represented major challenges to the restoration of law and order in the immediate aftermath of the uprising. However, subsequent improvements on both fronts mean that, despite an increase in crime rates fostered by the relaxation of the formerly pervasive security apparatus, the overall travel risks are returning to LOW. Nevertheless, there remains an elevated potential for outbreaks of unrest in economically deprived areas of the south and interior, where the travel risk rating remains MEDIUM; such disturbances can hamper travel and potentially pose incidental risks to bystanders.

We have reduced the overall travel risk rating for Liberia from HIGH to MEDIUM. The change reflects improvements in the country's political and security environments since the end of the civil war in 2004, though the government remains reliant on the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) for its security force capabilities. The area along the porous border with Côte d'Ivoire retains its HIGH travel risk rating due to the continued risks posed by the possible presence of armed elements, combined with the higher potential for violence over ethnic antagonism or local resources, and a limited security force presence.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Blue Nile state to HIGH due to rising instability in the wake of the secession of South Sudan. The border state has become increasingly volatile in recent months, largely as a result of a spill over of violence from nearby South Kordofan state, where the Sudanese Armed Forces are attempting to contain a rebellion on the part of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army-North (SPLM/A-N). While foreign nationals are unlikely to be targeted during hostilities, the use of heavy weapons poses considerable incidental risks to those in the vicinity, while access restrictions complicate overland travel.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the capital San Juan to MEDIUM from LOW. The change has been prompted by a significant increase in violent crime in recent months. More specifically, there has been a rise in the city's homicide rate, with the majority of murders attributable to mounting drug-trafficking activity.

Our travel risk rating for major urban centres has been raised to MEDIUM from LOW, due to the latent risk of public protests amid chronic fuel shortages, rising food costs and President Bingu wu Mutharika's continued refusal to implement economic and political reforms. These issues are likely to fuel protests in the near term.

The travel risk rating for the capital Belize City has been raised from LOW to MEDIUM as a result of the increasing rate of violent crime there. The presence of violent criminal gangs with ties to Mexican drug traffickers operating across Central America is the main contributing factor to the deteriorating security situation in the city.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the states of Durango and Veracruz to HIGH from MEDIUM, following a review of the security situation. The risk rating change for Durango is reflective of the high levels of violence there over the past year. The decision to raise Veracruz' risk rating has been taken in response to a significant increase in violent drugs trade-related incidents in recent months, as well as in recognition of the state's precarious security environment.

Our travel risk ratings for the capital Athens and northern city of Thessaloniki (Central Macedonia periphery) have been raised to MEDIUM from LOW, due to ongoing protests against the government's unpopular austerity measures. Isolated clashes between the security forces and radical elements intent on engaging in acts of vandalism and seeking confrontation with the police are common occurrences during these rallies. Such violence is often concentrated in central areas near to business-class hotels, including in the vicinity of the parliament building at Syntagma Square in Athens. While foreigners are unlikely to be targeted during such disturbances, the police are likely to employ tough measures to disperse unruly crowds, posing incidental risks to bystanders. In addition, such rallies are frequently accompanied by the participation of public transport workers, whose work stoppages – along with those organised in advance by major trade union confederations – can hamper overland and air travel.

The risks associated with travel to rural, especially mountainous and border, areas of Hakkari, Siirt, Sirnak, Diyarbakir and Tunceli are rated as HIGH due to the scale and frequency of Kurdish militant attacks. The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) has in recent months intensified its violent campaign against the security forces in these locations. Several such attacks have taken place on key highways or in public places, and have involved civilian casualties. As such, the incidents underline the risks posed by overland travel in the region.

The travel risk rating for rural areas of Bitlis, Bingol, Van, Batman, Mardin, Mus, Agri, southern Erzincan, as well as urban areas of Hakkari, Bitlis, Bingol, Van, Diyarbakir, Batman, Mus, Sirnak, Siirt and Tunceli, is MEDIUM. This is due to the reduced intensity and frequency of attacks and clashes between militants and the security forces in these areas, compared with in the regions bordering Iraq where the PKK maintains its bases. Regardless, any travel to these provinces should be undertaken with professional security and/or logistical support to mitigate the risks posed by militant activity.

As a result of an increase in the scope and frequency of attacks by the Islamist militant sect Boko Haram, we have increased the travel risk ratings for several northern states as well as the capital Abuja to HIGH from medium. The latter change is motivated by the credible potential for further high-profile – if isolated – attacks by the group on symbols of the establishment or of the international presence (including business-class hotels) in Abuja. Separately, the expansion over the course of 2011 of Boko Haram's campaign of bomb-and-gun attacks in the north, beyond its stronghold in Borno state, has prompted an increase to HIGH from Medium of the travel risk ratings for Kaduna (north), Yobe and Gombe states, as well as for the northern part of Adamawa state (all three north-east).

Our travel risk rating for all areas of the country outside central districts of the capital Damascus and the northern city of Aleppo (Aleppo governorate) has been raised to EXTREME from HIGH. The rating has been changed for several reasons, including the gradual deterioration of the security environment and the increasing logistical factors hampering travel options and freedom of movement for business travellers and expatriates in Syria.

We have raised the travel risk rating for areas along the Sudanese border to EXTREME from HIGH. Proxy conflicts in neighbouring Sudan are likely to be aggravated by the emergence of an umbrella rebel group, which will continue to fuel insecurity on the Chadian side of the border, where poor infrastructure and state support also present significant challenges for travellers. Foreign personnel in the region face credible risks from the activities of rebel groups, including banditry and kidnapping.

We have raised the travel risk rating for remote border areas with Somalia in North-Eastern province to EXTREME from HIGH. The decision follows recent cross-border attacks against foreign personnel perpetrated by criminals operating out of Somalia and Kenya's military intervention in Somalia's Lower Juba region. Border areas in North-Eastern are likely to remain vulnerable to a spillover of fighting and insecurity from Somalia. Meanwhile, foreign personnel will remain an attractive target of criminal activity, including kidnap-for-ransom, by bandits who benefit from the general lawlessness in Somalia and the border region.

The improvement of security, albeit from a low base, in Tripoli and the major urban areas of the north-western coastal provinces of Al Khams, Az Zawiyah, Al Aziziyah, Tarabulus, Al Kums, Zlitan and Misrata, justifies a reduction in the travel risk rating for these areas to HIGH from EXTREME. Further anti-Gadhafi military operations in these areas are not expected and travel is viable for essential business. Nonetheless, the rule of law remains fragile, and there is a risk from potential factional fighting between rebel militias, as well as criminality not related directly to the conflict.

We have raised the travel risk rating for border areas with Egypt to MEDIUM from LOW; the decision comes following recent cross-border attacks against Israeli targets by militants operating in the Sinai peninsula (Egypt). Militants in Sinai have benefited from the deteriorating security situation in the peninsula following the Egyptian uprising in January-February. A sustained campaign of border infiltrations and associated attacks is unlikely, though further such sporadic incidents are possible due to the country's porous frontier, potentially posing an indirect risk to personnel travelling in the border region.

The travel risk rating for the Apurímac river valley has been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH due to increasing guerrilla and criminal activities. The Apurímac and Ene river valleys (VRAE) are strongholds of the leftist Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso, SL) guerrilla group. While sporadic attacks by SL remnants pose a credible risk to travellers in remote areas of the region, the group's association with drug trafficking and the resultant increase in criminal activity have contributed to insecurity in the VRAE. Although around 4,500 military personnel have been deployed to the VRAE for counter-insurgency operations and to combat drug trafficking, it remains difficult to eradicate the SL completely.

The travel risk rating for the North Caucasus republic of Dagestan was been increased from HIGH to EXTREME. The security situation in Dagestan is by far the most volatile compared to other North Caucasus republics, such as Ingushetia, Kabardino-Balkaria and Chechnya, with several Islamist militant attacks reported on a weekly basis. Islamist militant groups usually target federal and local security personnel and local judicial and government officials, as well as premises associated with the government, though they also maintain the intent and capability to target civilians. Furthermore, the risk to foreign personnel travelling to the republic is exacerbated by difficulties in engaging reliable security and logistics support to facilitate business travel.

The risk rating for Abyan province has been lifted from high to EXTREME in view of the significant level of extremist activity and ongoing fierce fighting between Islamist militants, tribal groups and government forces. Military operations, including air strikes, can be expected to continue as troops seek to force militants out of strongholds in the region. There is a persistent risk of terrorist attacks on both government and civilian targets, posing considerable incidental and – potentially – direct risks to personnel.

The more stable security situation in the rebel-held north-eastern provinces of Benghazi, Al Marj, Al Jabal al Akhdar, Darnah and Al Butnan, has caused us to lower the travel risk rating for these areas to HIGH from EXTREME. These provinces are not directly affected by the ongoing military campaign between forces loyal to the regime of Col Muammar al-Gadhafi and troops supporting the rebel Transitional National Council (TNC). They are also unlikely to be targeted by international forces enforcing the no-fly zone. Nevertheless, there is a persistent risk of localised armed clashes between Gadhafi loyalists – pockets of which remain in these areas – and TNC forces. Fighting between rival militias, as well as a generally weak rule of law, also contribute to the HIGH travel risk rating.

We have raised the country's travel risk rating from MEDIUM to HIGH in view of the swiftly deteriorating security situation caused by continued anti-government protests and the hardline government response to them.

We have increased the travel risk rating for West Azerbaijan province to MEDIUM from LOW. Sporadic terrorist attacks from ethnic Kurdish militant groups such as the Party for Free Life in Kurdistan (PJAK) in West Azerbaijan, including the city of Mahabad, pose incidental risks to travellers and expatriates. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has, since 22 July, stepped up a military offensive in the region, deploying an additional 5,000 troops in an attempt to eliminate PJAK cells, following a roadside bombing in the Alvatan area of West Azerbaijan, in which six IRGC officers – including a colonel – were killed. PJAK attacks and subsequent military actions will persist in the near term; the operations of the IRGC are unlikely to succeed in quelling Kurdish militant activities. While foreigners are not likely to be directly targeted either by the PJAK or in the event of military skirmishes, civilian casualties are not uncommon. Military operations may include the shelling of villages along the border with Iraq. Rural regions, particularly mountainous areas close to the border, are the primary base for Kurdish militant groups, but the PJAK has demonstrated an operational capability to execute attacks in urban areas.

We have raised our travel risk rating for the southern cities of Aden (Aden province) and Taiz (Taiz province) to HIGH from medium to reflect deteriorating local conditions in those cities, bringing their travel risk rating in line with the overall HIGH travel risk rating for Yemen. While conditions in Aden had been relatively safer than elsewhere in the country, recent incidents have raised concerns over the local security landscape; a British national was assassinated on 20 July when his car was booby-trapped, while a series of bombings have been reported in different parts of the city in recent weeks. Although incidents targeting foreigners are likely to remain sporadic, there is a significant risk of further such attacks in the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the situation in Taiz, where violence between the security forces and tribesmen claiming to protect pro-democracy groups has steadily increased, can be expected to remain highly volatile.

The travel risk rating for the southern oil-producing areas has been lowered to MEDIUM from HIGH to reflect the conditions fostered by a heightened security presence, which considerably mitigates the risks posed to foreign personnel by the activities of the Islamist extremist group al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (QIM).

The travel risk rating for Ramallah (West Bank) has been lowered to MEDIUM from high because of an improving security situation across the West Bank. Consistent support from the EU has helped improve the capacity of the Palestinian Authority's police force, which has contributed to stronger rule of law in the city. The steady growth of Ramallah's economy has also led to infrastructural improvements and is likely to have contributed to a reduction in crime.

We have raised the travel risk ratings for Plateau and Bauchi states from MEDIUM to HIGH, reflecting the increased risks posed by sectarian and communal violence and by gun and bomb attacks against symbols of the establishment by the resurgent Islamist extremist Boko Haram sect. We have also raised from MEDIUM to HIGH the travel risk ratings for Abia, Anambra, Edo, Imo and Enugu states due to the resurgence of violent crime – such as armed robberies – in these southern states.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the commercial capital Douala (Littoral province) from high to MEDIUM as part of a general review of our ratings. While various forms of crime – including mugging, theft from vehicles and violent crime such as armed robbery and burglary – pose credible risks to expatriates and business travellers in the city, they are mitigated by the security force presence.

We have raised the overall travel risk rating for the Central African Republic to HIGH from medium, while the rating for the capital Bangui remains at MEDIUM. The change reflects the differing risks facing business personnel in the capital – where personnel are most likely to be at direct risk from petty crime or low, indirect risks from unrest over communal, social or economic issues – and the rest of the country, where weak state control and poor infrastructure contribute to higher travel risks.

We have raised Mali's overall travel risk rating from low to MEDIUM to reflect increased risks to personnel – notably, that of kidnapping – posed by the activities of the Islamist extremist al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb. To better reflect the risks to business personnel posed by the group's increased capabilities and operational reach, we have also extended further south the HIGH travel risk zone, which now encompasses all areas north-east of Mopti city (Mopti region), including north-eastern border areas.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Borno state from MEDIUM to HIGH in light of increasing terrorist activity by the Islamist militant sect Boko Haram over the last six months. The group has multiplied its attacks on security force targets, officials and activities it deems un-Islamic, especially in the state capital Maiduguri, increasingly resorting to the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) as well as shootings.

The travel risk rating for Armenia's border region with Azerbaijan has been raised to MEDIUM from LOW. No resolution to the long-standing conflict over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh is likely in the medium term; meanwhile, the existing ceasefire agreement remains fragile, and cross-border incidents along the line of contact between Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan remain a common occurrence.

We have added the area along the Afghan border to our HIGH travel risk zone due to an increased risk posed by militant activity and landmines. The Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan – which is believed to have links with the Islamist militant Taliban and seeks to overthrow President Islam Karimov's regime – has re-established a strong presence in Balkh province (Afghanistan), which borders Uzbekistan; the group had previously lost much of its capability as a result of intensified operations by the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force. Organised criminal groups linked to the illicit drugs trade also continue to operate in the area.

The travel risk rating for the Pankisi Gorge beyond Akhmeta has been lowered from HIGH to MEDIUM. The risks associated with North Caucasus-based militant activity and kidnap of foreigners have declined, warranting a change in the risk profile.

President Alpha Condé recently celebrated his first 100 days in office. The successful completion of a November 2010 presidential election after a period of military rule and sustained political and ethnic tensions has brought a degree of stability to the country, which has translated into a significant improvement in the security environment for business travellers and expatriates. We have, therefore, decided to reduce the travel risk rating for Guinea from high to MEDIUM.

Circumstantial evidence confirms that the security situation has improved in the capital Yaoundé, where crime is less of an issue, and is better contained, than in other major cities. The city benefits from the largest police presence in the country and while petty crime remains an issue for foreign personnel in central districts, violent crime is relatively unusual. We are, therefore, lowering Yaoundé's travel risk rating to MEDIUM from high.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Libya to EXTREME from HIGH in light of the continued fighting associated with the rebellion against the regime of leader Col Muammar al-Gadhafi, and the NATO-led airstrikes against targets associated with the government.

We have raised our travel risk rating to HIGH from medium for the eastern desert areas to reflect direct and indirect risks – notably, that of kidnapping – posed to foreign personnel by Islamist militants, who have been staging increasingly bold attacks across the Sahel region, and bandits.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Syria to MEDIUM from LOW in light of continuing anti-government protests and associated disturbances in urban centres across the country.

We have raised our travel risk rating from medium to HIGH for the north-eastern border areas and all areas north of Timbuktu (Timbuktu region) to reflect direct and indirect risks – notably, that of kidnapping – posed to foreign personnel by the activities of ethnic-Tuareg rebels; Islamist militants, who have been staging increasingly bold attacks across the Sahel region; and other armed groups.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Bahrain to MEDIUM from Low to reflect the considerable challenges posed to internal travel and the elevated incidental risks personnel face from violent protests and security crackdowns at this time. A swift resolution to the political crisis appears unlikely; severe disruption to travel and business operations can be expected to persist for several days or weeks.

We have raised the travel risk rating for areas bordering Nigeria from medium to HIGH to better reflect the security risks associated with activities by bandits and traffickers along the 565-mile (910km) border between the two countries.

We have raised our travel risk rating for Libya to HIGH from medium to reflect the steady and acute deterioration of its security environment and local travel conditions.The anti-government uprising is not expected to abate quickly and any escalation of violence will exacerbate the level of travel disruption already experienced in the country – from and within Libya, including in the capital Tripoli.

We have increased our travel risk rating for Libya to MEDIUM from Low to take into account the wave of violent anti-government protests which has spread from the eastern and north-eastern parts of the country to the capital Tripoli. While there is no credible information to suggest that systemic attacks against foreign interests and personnel are imminent, the security situation remains extremely volatile as the government continues its violent suppression of dissent. Further bouts of unrest are highly likely, which will pose significant incidental risks to business travellers and expatriates.

The security situation in Tunisia has suddenly deteriorated as a result of the ouster of former president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali. Although Prime Minister Mohamed Ghannouchi has announced the establishment of a unity government, further political protests and violence by hardline supporters of Ben Ali are expected and can pose significant indirect risks to personnel, while a curfew and checkpoints erected by vigilantes or the military disrupt travel. The political transition may involve a protracted period of uncertainty. Given these factors, we have raised the travel risk rating from low to MEDIUM.

The travel risk rating for the northern border states of Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León and Tamaulipas, and the north-western Sinaloa and south-western Guerrero states as a whole has been revised to HIGH due to a continuing upward trend in drugs-trade related violence. The reassessment was necessitated as the risk is now no longer restricted to locations along the US-Mexico border and the city of Culiacán (Sinaloa), which earlier constituted the region with a HIGH travel risk rating, but has affected large parts of the northern border states, Sinaloa and Guerrero.

The travel risk rating for the capital Bishkek has been increased to MEDIUM from LOW. The change is precautionary and reflects the anticipated increase in political activism in the run-up to nationwide elections on 10 October and expectations of continued instability in the immediate post-election period. It also reflects the increasing likelihood of anti-government activity in other oblasts (provinces) inspiring similar activity in the capital.

We have raised our travel risk rating for border areas with Mali (previously defined as south-western border with Mali) to HIGH from MEDIUM. Travel to the border areas with Mali should be for essential purposes only. Please read our Standing Travel Advice section for further details.

The travel risk rating for the capital Kabul, the western city of Herat (Herat province) and Kunduz province have been raised to EXTREME from HIGH to reflect the fluid security environment resulting from the continuing insurgency. Bamian, Daykundi, Ghor, Jowzjan, Pansjher, Samangan and Saripul provinces have been identified as comparatively stable and the travel risk rating has been lowered in these areas from EXTREME to HIGH.

The travel risk rating for the city of Osh (Osh oblast) on 22 June has been raised from MEDIUM to HIGH. The revised rating reflects the likelihood of persistent instability arising from inter-ethnic tensions and the activity of supporters of ousted president Kurmanbek Bakiyev (2005-10) seeking to undermine the central government's influence, including the rule of law, in the region. The HIGH travel risk ratings for the international border region of Osh oblast and Jalal-Abad oblast remain in force.

The travel risk rating for the capital Bangkok has been increased from LOW to MEDIUM. The change reflects the changing dynamics on the ground and the fluid security environment resulting from the continued anti-government protest campaign aimed at forcing the government to dissolve parliament and call for fresh elections.

The travel risk rating for the areas affected by the 8.8-magnitude earthquake that hit Chile on 27 February has been downgraded to LOW from MEDIUM due to improved security conditions on the ground. The areas in question are Region VII (Maule) and Region VIII (Biobío), as well as adjacent parts of Region VI (O'Higgins) and Region IX (Araucanía).

The travel risk rating has been lowered from extreme to HIGH because of modest improvements in the security situation in the aftermath of an earthquake measuring 7.0 on the moment magnitude scale that struck in January. The factors that have led to the risk rating change include the reopening of Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP) in the capital Port-au-Prince, the safety assessment by engineers of business-class hotels and improved access to services.

The travel risk rating for the Maule (Region VII) and Biobío (Region VIII) regions and adjacent parts of O'Higgins (Region VI) and Araucanía (Region IX) regions has been raised from low to MEDIUM because of the the extensive destruction and disruption caused by the earthquake measuring 8.8 on the moment magnitude scale that struck off the country's western coast on 27 February.

The travel risk rating has been raised to EXTREME from HIGH following a magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck about ten miles (15km) south-west of the capital Port-au-Prince on 12 January. The effect of the earthquake has been severe; the risk rating change is motivated by the significant disruption to travel and essential services, and consequent volatile security situation.

We have revised our risk ratings for Kyrgyzstan to reflect the more nuanced security environment. The travel risk rating for the country as a whole has been revised downwards from high to MEDIUM and for the capital Bishkek from high to LOW. Meanwhile, the travel risk rating for Batken province, the international border region of Osh province (excluding Osh city), and the Uzbekistan border region of Jalal-Abad province will remain HIGH.

We have lowered our travel risk rating from high to MEDIUM in light of an improvement in the security environment since a state of emergency was lifted in April 2008.

We have raised the travel risk rating for the Djiboutian border from medium to HIGH. The change is based on the continued military presence in the area and the potential for sporadic renewed clashes between the Eritrean and Djiboutian security forces.

We have revised our risk ratings to reflect changing dynamics on the ground following the government's military defeat of the militant separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The travel risk rating for Sri Lanka and the capital Colombo has been reduced from high to MEDIUM; and the risk rating for Northern province (which we previously defined as Northern Wanni region) has been lowered from extreme to HIGH to reflect the cessation of combat operations and the reduced threat posed by the LTTE. Although the capabilities of the LTTE have been reduced, the threat from asymmetrical attacks, including the use of suicide bombers in Colombo, remains. The government now controls the entire country, but the security situation in the north and east of the country remains volatile.

We have created a new risk zone for the north-eastern border area with Iraq, with a MEDIUM travel risk rating, to reflect a likely deterioration of the security situation as a result of the gradual withdrawal of US troops in Iraq to cities and the transfer of responsibility for the provision of security to poorly trained and ill-equipped Iraqi forces.

We have lowered the travel risk rating for the main urban centres (the capital Algiers, Oran, Mostaganem, Tlemcen, Annaba, Skikda and Setif) from high to MEDIUM in light of a decline in terrorist attacks in the last 18 months.

Frequent small-scale terrorist attacks by ultra-leftist groups have not evolved into a substantive risk to visiting business personnel, as was previously feared; as a result, the travel risk rating for the capital Athens and the adjacent port city of Piraeus has been downgraded from medium to LOW.

In response to the increased number of attacks by ultra-leftist and anarchist groups on government and business targets in Athens and Piraeus, a new risk rating zone has been created for those two cities, for which the travel risk rating has been raised from low to MEDIUM. These attacks have caused an enduring and business-focused deterioration in the security environment in the aftermath of the widespread unrest that occurred throughout the country from December 2008.

In light of the volatile security environment in Saada province, in the north of the country, a new risk zone has been created for Yemen; the travel risk rating for Saada is now EXTREME. There is a persistent threat of terrorist attacks by extremist groups, a risk of kidnapping by heavily armed tribes and an intermittent rebellion against the central government by the Mujahideen Group in Saada.

Our travel risk rating for the North West Frontier Province (NWFP) and north-east Baluchistan has been raised from high to EXTREME in light of the increasing influence of Islamist extremists from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas in these regions, the growing control of the Tehrik-e-Taleban Pakistan in the NWFP and the presence of senior elements of the Afghan Taleban in Baluchistan.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Guinea-Bissau from medium to HIGH following the assassination on 2 March of President President Bernardo Vieira, preceded on 1 March by the death of military chief Gen Batista Tagme Na Wai in a bomb attack in Bissau. This change in the country's travel risk rating reflects the negative outlook for the security environment as a consequence of political uncertainty, weak and ineffective state institutions, little respect for the rule of law and the potential for further conflict involving the military or factions within it.

We have reclassified Batticaloa and coastal areas of Ampara under Eastern province (a new risk zone) and reduced the travel risk rating for this region from extreme to HIGH in light of improvements in the security situation in the area. We have also redefined the areas north of the A12 road as the northern Wanni region due to a reduction in the amount of territory controlled by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE); the travel risk rating for this area remains EXTREME.

We have raised the travel risk rating for Gaza from high to EXTREME in the light of an Israeli ground offensive and Israeli air strikes that have killed several hundred people in the Gaza Strip. The overall travel risk rating for the Palestinian Territories remains MEDIUM.

We raised its travel ratings for Ciudad Juárez (Chihuahua state), Culiacán (Sinaloa state) and Tijuana (Baja California state) from medium to HIGH (Tijuana's travel rating remains HIGH) following increases in serious crime and in drug-related violence.
 

We raised its travel risk rating for India from low to MEDIUM to reflect trends in the political and security environments, as evidenced by recent developments in Kashmir, Assam, Orissa, Bangalore and Ahmedabad (and elsewhere), all of which have caused disruption to travel.
 

We raised the travel risk rating for North Kivu province from high to EXTREME because of increased insecurity as a result of rebel activity, though ratings for the provincial capital Goma remain HIGH. The area of EXTREME travel risk is now ‘Ituri district (Orientale province), North Kivu province (excluding Goma)’.