Security Overview for Central African Republic

The Central African Republic (CAR) is a poor, strife-ridden state that experienced a military coup by General Francois Bozize in March 2003. Successful elections, led by Bozize, occurred in 2005; however, the country now faces a budding rebellion in the north. In addition, Bozize continues to face the same problems inherited from former head of state Felix Ange Patasse's administration, namely mismanagement of the economy and persistent threats of instability.

The rebellion in the north stems partly from Bozize's failure to address the grievances of combatants, who want better compensation and a voice in the government. The Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) surfaced in late October 2006 and is allegedly backed by Sudan's government. UFDR leaders accuse the president of catering to his own ethnic group - the Baya - to the exclusion of others. Increasing instability could ultimately lead to a wider regional conflict involving the CAR, Chad and Sudan. Chad also accuses Khartoum of backing a rebellion in that country. The international community's involvement will play a critical role in determining the rebellion's success or failure. Numerous governments continue to advise against unnecessary travel to the CAR.

In addition to political instability, the CAR has bouts of civil unrest associated with the sagging economy and the government's inability to pay civil servants or disburse funds to university students. Government police tend to use force when dispersing demonstrators.

Street crime is not common in downtown Bangui and has decreased somewhat since the arrival of African peacekeepers from neighboring countries. Armed gangs, mostly former rebels, operate in outlying residential areas. Most foreigners employ 24-hour security guards at their homes and places of business.

Looting has occurred during periods of civil unrest. Armed highway robbery in rural areas is common, especially during the December through May dry season. Foreigners and others are subject to assault and petty crimes such as pickpocketing, fraud and scams. Most criminals operate in residential areas and those frequented by travelers and expatriates. Avoid the KM5 market in Bangui and do not walk alone on the streets of Bangui. To reduce vulnerability, avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches. Be discreet with cellular phones and other computer or digital equipment. Change travel routes regularly and avoid walking outside after dark.

Public transportation is not safe. Travel only by taxi, preferably one arranged by your hotel or hosts, even for short trips. Avoid overland travel outside of Bangui unless escorted by military or security services. Border closures with neighboring countries have occurred with little notice.

The threat of international terrorism is low in the CAR, as is the threat of kidnapping for ransom or political gain.

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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.