Security Overview for Algeria

Economic and political unrest is common in parts of Algiers and outside the capital. Demonstrators protest low pay, water and housing shortages, commodity price increases, lack of government services, and political issues. Protests, marches, and strikes related to economic issues frequently turn violent. Demonstrations and civil unrest increased in the wake of the revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt in 2011. In response, the Algerian government has made several concessions to mollify the protesters, including lifting the 19-year state of emergency.

Beyond the recent bout of civil unrest, the security situation in Algeria has improved dramatically since the 1990s, but the terrorist group Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), formerly known as the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC), continues to pose a threat. The crime rate in Algeria is high and rising. Violent crime - including armed robbery, assault, and carjacking - is a serious concern, especially in Algiers. Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are common. Stay only in upscale, internationally recognized hotels and residences with augmented security.

AQIM continues to pose a threat to Western and Algerian interests in the energy, aviation, hospitality, and government sectors. However, aggressive counterterrorism operations have largely limited AQIM to operations in the eastern Kabylie region, which is comprised of the provinces of Bejaia, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Bouira, Boumerdes, Tizi Ouzou, and parts of Setif. While AQIM has not carried out a major attack in Algiers since a Dec. 11, 2007, bombing that killed 33 people, security forces have dismantled several AQIM terror cells in the capital. The group has also carried out several kidnappings of foreign nationals, mostly along the southern border region with Mauritania, Mali, and Niger.

Avoid using all modes of public transportation. A private car with a trusted driver is the most secure method of transportation within Algiers. iJET strongly recommends against overland travel outside of Algiers. If rural travel is unavoidable, undertake it only in a convoy of three or more vehicles and with trusted, armed security personnel. Travel to the Sahara region is particularly dangerous.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.