Safety is one of the top things we consider whenever we travel, live, or even learn about parts of the world. Unfortunately, some of them are considered notorious for being unsafe to travel to because of various reasons at play, which include war, a high crime rate, and political instability. In this article, we will go into detail about the top 10 most dangerous countries in the world where safety can be of concern.
1. Afghanistan
Afghanistan once again tends to top the chart due to the prevalent war and political turmoil. After decades of war, it remains as one of the most unstable places on earth. It is not safe because of armed groups like the Taliban and ISIS for locals and foreigners. Bombings, kidnappings, and violent attacks are common, daily life is extremely risky.
2. Syria
The Syrian Civil War, which started in 2011, devastated the country. Cities lie in ruins, and many have been displaced for their lives. While the war has slowed down, there are still instances of violent clashes in certain areas. Living in Syria these days means bombs, shootings, and a lack of basic amenities like clean water and electricity.
3. Yemen
Yemen is another country torn apart by war. The civil war between the official government and Houthi rebels has led to a humanitarian crisis. Food and medicine are scarce, as civilians are often caught in the crossfire. Violent clashes, airstrikes, and bombings happen almost daily, making Yemen one of the world’s most dangerous places.
4. Somalia
Decades of violence have passed, and Somalia is really unsafe, particularly in the greater parts of the country where terrorist groups, especially Al-Shabaab, would appear. The offshore piracy and frequent terror attacks within the cities are just adding to the danger. Of course, efforts have been made to stabilize Somalia, but violence and crimes continue to afflict the nation.
5. South Sudan
Since coming into independence in 2011, South Sudan experiences almost unending violence. It has become one of the most dangerous places in the world due to civil war, tribal clashes, and instability within the government. Armed groups are everywhere, and civilians are often targets. Lack of elementary services coupled with severe poverty makes lives more ungainly.
6. Iraq
Although Iraq has somehow been stabilized after the defeat of ISIS, it is still a very dangerous place. Terroristic acts happen quite frequently, and most of them occur in the capital of Baghdad and northern areas. Political tension, sectarian violence, and an unstable government make Iraq even riskier for its own citizens. Violence can erupt at any moment.
7.Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
This has also proven to be both a blessing and a source of woe for the DRC. Due to the large amount of resources available, armed groups clash frequently amongst themselves, leading to kidnappings, massacres, and other security operations within the countryside. Rape becomes a weapon in the war, and the large parts of the country are out of the reach of government control.
8. Libya
Since the fall of Muammār al-Qaḏḏāfī in 2011, Libya hasn’t known any stability. Several factions vie for control over large parts of the country; that makes daily conventional life extremely hazardous. Kidnappings, clashes of armed men, and terror attacks are not uncommon. Much of the country is in the hands of militias; there is little rule of law.
9. Venezuela
The danger in Venezuela is not so much caused by war but because of the serious political, economic crisis in the country. Venezuela falls within one of the countries that have the highest rate of murder, robbery cases armed, and numerous kidnappings. Food, medicine, and other basic services are at low supply; such a situation tends to increase criminal activities.
Government instability has resulted in several million Venezuelans having to leave their country in search of a less risky life.
10. Central African Republic (CAR)
The CAR is often forgotten, but it’s one of the most dangerous places in Africa: large swaths of the country are controlled by armed groups, and violence against civilians is pervasive. Kidnappings, killings, and sexual violence have become part of daily life for many living here. The government has little influence, and the UN has described it as “a forgotten crisis.
These countries have acute problems that raise their level of risk to their own people and tourists who visit. The inhabitants of these nations are strong, but the imminent dangers posed by the ongoing violence make everyday living a challenge.
If ever one contemplates gaining experience in these locations, think twice.or better yet, completely avoid them for a while.
Everyone needs to keep in mind that safety is always a top priority and one must always understand the various inherent risks involved.
