Safety Comes First: What Countries Are the Least Safe on a Global Scale?

Whether you’re a backpacker, traveler, or you’re just heading out on a one-time vacation; you don’t want your trip to be ruined by going somewhere unsafe where you could put yourself in danger. This should clearly be avoided at all costs. While some places may be obviously unsafe, others may not be, which is why we’re compiling this list as a reference point you can use any time.

Of course, the places on this list are subject to change at any time, for better or for worse, so even if you have a real desire to go somewhere, make sure you’re taking the time to look up the most up=to-date travel information possible. And with that, let’s jump into the list.

The Middle East

Yes, there are reasonably safe countries in the Middle East, such as Dubai, but many countries are best off avoided for casual visits. Countries like Syria, Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the sorts have all been plagued by disease, famine, and war over the last few decades, and while recovery is taking place, it’s a long shot yet.

Terrorism is also known to be rife in these areas, with situations like bombings and hostage-taking happening, which is clearly something you won’t want to get accidentally caught up in.

Syria is actually classed as the most dangerous place on earth, with the media describing that if World War III was to take place, this is the country it would start. Major cities are affected by chemical attacks, rebellions, and uprisings constantly trying to take control and military forces from all over the world trying to maintain peace, usually to even more dangerous results.

Yemen

Yemen gets a special mention for being unsafe. The country is a critical turmoil right now and classified as one of the most dangerous countries in the world right now. Make sure you’re avoiding it at all costs.

North Korea

At the time of writing, this is not even a country you can get into without breaking across the border, which will involve you being arrested if caught, and possibly even executed. Avoid. Watch the news to see why.

Somalia

Somalia is a country with a bit of a reputation, especially when it comes to things like crime, corruption, and most infamously, pirates. Piracy is rife in this area, and in 2010 alone, over 1,180 people were taken hostage and held at ransom in the area. It’s not worth taking the risk to visit. Sanetraveller has a collection of much safer places you can travel to.

Western Africa

Another dangerous place, crime is rife in many West African countries, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and much more. You never know when you’re going to be robbed, shot, stabbed, or physically assaulted, so it’s not even worth putting yourself at risk.

Summary

While there are plenty of unsafe countries out there, there are also a plethora of amazing, safe countries out there, so focus on these, and you’ll be sure to have a beautiful and wonderful travel experience.