Security Overview for Venezuela

Since 1990, Venezuela has weathered a series of coup attempts, political corruption scandals and a faltering economy that led to the election in late 1998 of populist President Hugo Chavez. The political situation in Venezuela remains tense, though Chavez has consolidated his power over his three presidential terms.

The result of the political and economic instability has been an increase in crime and large-scale civil unrest. The Caracas homicide rate is among the highest in Latin America. Not surprisingly, recent polls reveal that crime has become the chief concern among Venezuelans. In many cases, criminal activity in and around cities varies according to location and the time of day; strict observance of prudent security practices can go a long way toward minimizing the risk of being victimized.

Avoid public transportation in Venezuela; bus and train stations harbor criminals. Carjackings are frequent, and many turn into express kidnappings. A private car with a professionally trained driver is the most secure means of travel. Limit overland travel to daylight hours only on well-traveled and populated roads. For-ransom abductions, which are not traditionally among Venezuela's more severe security problems, have risen considerably in recent years. Foreign nationals and wealthy locals are targeted.

Large-scale, violent civil unrest erupted in 2002 and 2003. This culminated in an attempted coup and a general strike that lasted several months. Since then, demonstrations and strikes have plagued the country. Demonstrations, drawing tens of thousands of people, have the propensity to spur violence throughout the country. Vandalism, looting and other violence may occur, which the government and security forces quell with violent measures. Avoid all protests.

There is a moderate risk of terrorist activity in Venezuela that comes from the tense political situation inside the country and its proximity to Colombia. A significant threat of terrorism in Venezuela emanates from its western neighbor, Colombia, where guerrillas of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and National Liberation Army (ELN), as well as rival right-wing United Self-Defense of Colombia (AUC) paramilitary forces, have extensive presences in the northeast.

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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.