The world’s getting smaller, but it’s also getting more dangerous. Even the United States, a relatively safe place for domestic and international travelers, succumbed to civil unrest, contagious disease, and natural disasters in 2020. Despite historically low prices on plane tickets, think twice before packing your bag and exploring these countries. They’re considered the most dangerous by International SOS, a travel-risk assessment company.
6 Most Dangerous Countries in the World in 2020
Syria
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Considered an extreme security risk for international travelers, the U.S. embassy warns of “kidnappings, the use of chemical warfare, shelling, and aerial bombardment.” They stress that “no part of Syria is safe from violence.” Still, it’s no surprise that some people found a way into the country, and you can find travel guides for touring a war-zone on the internet.
Iraq
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The State Department lists Iraq as having a Level Four Travel Advisory and cautions U.S. citizens not to travel due to “COVID-19, terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict.” They also make a note, in bold, that Mission Iraq, the reduced force of U.S. troops stationed in the country, has a “limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens.”
Libya
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Since 2014, civil war has ravaged Libya, leading most governments worldwide to caution their citizens against traveling to the North African country. Even though cash is the only acceptable currency carrying it can make you a target for theft. The roads can close unexpectedly, and experts advise visitors to make multiple copies of identification documents.
Central African Republic
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Just north of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the CAR is one of Africa’s poorest countries. Held as a French colony until 1960, you can find baguettes and French pastries in most markets. Most embassies have limited capacity to help in the event of violent crime, kidnapping, or one of the frequent closures of the roads and borders.
Eastern Ukraine
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The U.S. State Department warns against travel because of abuse from the occupying Russian force, including arbitrary detention. Protest across Eastern Ukraine can often turn violent, during which tourists become targets for crime.
Yemen
Photo by Fahd Ahmed on Unsplash
Canada warns its residents they have limited capacity to help people exit the country once they’re there. The U.S. pulled out of its embassy in 2015. Foreign governments warn tourists to avoid all travel to Yemen due to unpredictable attacks from terrorists. Of course, some travel bloggers still explore the country.