As global travel rebounds, it’s crucial for travelers to recognize the amplified risks when visiting countries holding national elections. Global Rescue, a leader in travel risk and crisis management, has issued a risk assessment identifying countries where elections in 2025 could lead to increased instability.
“Elections are fundamental to democracy, but they can unfortunately also be catalysts for political unrest, protests, and even violence,” explains Kent Webber, Senior Manager of Intelligence Services at Global Rescue, drawing on his experience as a former senior intelligence operations officer within the Pentagon. “For anyone planning to travel during these periods, understanding and preparing for these potential risks is essential.”
Several nations face a heightened risk of protests, violence, and civil disorder due to upcoming national elections. The U.S. Department of State currently advises increased caution (“Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution”) for the following countries due to these factors:
Countries with Increased Travel Risks During Elections
Ecuador
Ecuador is experiencing escalating political tensions and widespread corruption allegations, creating a fertile ground for demonstrations and instability. In January 2024, a wave of attacks by organized crime groups prompted the government to declare an internal armed conflict and implement multiple states of emergency. While the immediate crisis has subsided, violence remains a significant concern. Furthermore, late 2024 saw protests against President Daniel Noboa’s policies, including energy conservation measures like power cuts during a drought. Ecuador’s first general election round is scheduled for February 9, with a follow-up round on April 13, 2025. Travelers should monitor local news and be prepared for potential disruptions.
Tanzania
Concerns regarding repression in Tanzania have been voiced by human rights organizations. These concerns include reports of arrests, abductions, and killings targeting opposition leaders and their supporters. Tanzania’s next Presidential national election is scheduled for October 2025. Visitors should be aware of the potential for political tensions and exercise caution, particularly around politically sensitive events or gatherings.
Ivory Coast
Past elections in the Ivory Coast have been marred by significant violence. The 2020 presidential elections were accompanied by political and intercommunal violence, resulting in at least 50 fatalities. The aftermath of the 2010 election saw even more severe conflict, tragically leading to thousands of deaths. The next Presidential election is slated for October 2025. Given this history, a heightened risk of unrest and political violence during the election period is a serious consideration for travelers.
Kosovo
Kosovo is facing potential protests following the Central Election Commission’s decision not to certify the Srpska Lista party, the main ethnic Serb political entity in Kosovo. Kosovo’s declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008 followed a violent war in 1998–1999. Serbia does not recognize Kosovo’s independence, and Serbs in northern Kosovo maintain strong ties to Belgrade and continue to advocate for autonomy. Past elections have triggered violence in northern Kosovo. While the date for the next Parliamentary election is not yet set, any election period could be volatile.
Highest Risk Election Destinations: “Do Not Travel” Countries
The following countries, already designated as “Level 4 – Do Not Travel” by the U.S. Department of State, carry even greater risks related to election-related civil unrest:
Venezuela
Venezuela’s ongoing political instability and severe economic turmoil frequently escalate into unrest, particularly during electoral cycles. The next Parliamentary election date is currently undetermined. The already precarious security situation in Venezuela can be further exacerbated during election periods.
Belarus
Belarus is known for its intense political suppression. Past elections have been triggers for widespread mass protests and forceful government crackdowns, leading to significant instability. The Presidential election is scheduled for January 26, 2025. Travelers should be acutely aware of the high risks associated with political activity and potential government responses.
Iraq
Iraq has a relatively recent and turbulent history with democratic elections. The next Parliamentary election date is not yet set. The complex political landscape and security challenges in Iraq mean that election periods can be particularly unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
Countries with the Lowest Election Travel Risks
In contrast, some countries are considered to have minimal risks during elections due to their robust democratic systems, stable governance, and peaceful political cultures. These include:
- Sweden
- Canada
- New Zealand
- Switzerland
- Norway
The Growing Importance of Travel Security Measures
A shift in travel risk perception is occurring, with geopolitical instability now surpassing other concerns for experienced travelers. Issues such as political unrest, economic instability, and conflict zones are prompting travelers to seek enhanced safety measures that were previously considered optional.
Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, notes, “Travelers are increasingly indicating that war, violent conflicts, and civil unrest make them more likely to include security extraction and advisory protection in their travel protection plans.” This reflects a growing awareness of and demand for proactive travel safety measures.
According to the Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey, nearly two-thirds (63%) of seasoned travelers would consider security extraction services even when visiting countries with a U.S. State Department travel advisory at Level 1 (exercise normal precautions) or Level 2 (exercise increased caution). Furthermore, 51% of respondents indicated they would obtain security extraction services when traveling to high-risk regions with potential or ongoing conflicts or civil unrest.
For further information, please contact Global Rescue Media Relations.
About Global Rescue
Global Rescue is the world’s leading provider of medical, security, evacuation, and travel risk management services. Founded in 2004, Global Rescue partners with Johns Hopkins Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations and Elite Medical Group. Global Rescue delivers comprehensive services to identify, monitor, and respond to medical and security crises. Serving a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 companies, governments, and academic institutions, Global Rescue has consistently provided crucial support during significant global crises over the past two decades. For more information, please visit www.globalrescue.com.
