Libya Country Report

Libya is a HIGH RISK country. Violent crime, terrorism, hazardous transportation, and poor infrastructure pose the greatest risks to travellers in the country.

Essential Precautions:

• Avoid all travel outside of Tripoli.
• Only use secure transportation.
• Do not display overt forms of wealth.
• Avoid demonstrations and protests, as they can often turn violent.
• Avoid street food in general, and only drink bottled water.
• Do not photograph government buildings, civil infrastructure, or military installations.

Insurance becomes a priority if you intend to travel or work in Libya. Travelling to Libya presents significant risks due to the country's unstable political situation, ongoing conflict, and security concerns. The situation can change rapidly, so it's essential to consult up-to-date travel advisories from your government or reliable sources like the U.S. State Department, UK Foreign Office, or your country's equivalent. Here are some factors to consider:

Crime and Security Concerns

Libya is a highly corrupt and violent country, fractured by civil war. Militia groups often clash for control over major cities, including the capital of Tripoli. Criminal gangs operate with impunity nationwide, and crimes of opportunity including theft, burglary, armed robbery, and carjacking are common. Foreigners are high-value targets for criminal and terrorist groups committing ransom kidnappings and violent attacks, seeking to draw attention or concessions from opposing groups. Despite infrequent tourism, extremist organisations often target tourist sites, hotels, restaurants, and other high population density locations using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and gunfire. Landmines and unspent ordnance from ground offensives also remain littered around major cities. Law enforcement and crime prevention in Libya is fractured and primarily overseen by local militias. Although protests are infrequent in Libya due to the threat of lethal force, they often turn violent when they do occur. Local militia members in Libya often perform arbitrary arrests and are openly hostile toward journalists. Both response rates and effectiveness vary dramatically by location.

Terrorism

Libya is a known hub for terrorist organisations and extremist groups, including ISIS and Al-Qaeda affiliates. These groups pose a significant threat to security, conducting attacks against civilians, government institutions, and foreign interests. Travellers should be aware of the risk of terrorist attacks, particularly in urban centres and areas with a history of extremist activity.

Kidnapping and Hostage-Taking

Kidnapping for ransom is a prevalent criminal activity in Libya, targeting both foreigners and locals. Foreign nationals, including diplomats, journalists, aid workers, and oil industry personnel, have been targeted in the past. Travellers are at risk of being abducted by armed groups or criminal gangs for financial gain or political leverage. Travelling outside major cities or into remote areas increases the risk of kidnapping.

Political Instability

Libya's political landscape is marked by fragmentation, with multiple rival governments, militias, and tribal factions competing for power. The lack of a central authority has led to governance challenges, administrative dysfunction, and a breakdown in law and order. Travellers may encounter roadblocks, checkpoints, and arbitrary detention by armed groups or security forces.

Humanitarian Crisis

Libya faces a humanitarian crisis with widespread displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services including healthcare and education. The ongoing conflict has exacerbated existing challenges, leaving many vulnerable populations at risk. Travellers should be prepared for limited infrastructure, unreliable public services, and shortages of basic necessities.

Travel Restrictions and Documentation

Travel to Libya is highly discouraged due to the security risks and lack of infrastructure. Foreign governments typically advise against all travel to Libya and may have stringent travel advisories in place. Travellers may also face difficulties obtaining visas and permits for entry, as diplomatic missions may be limited or closed.

Medical & Health Risk

Most pharmacies and medical centres in Libya fall short of international standards. However, private clinics staffed by English-speaking doctors exist in Tripoli and may be able to provide adequate healthcare services. Across Libya, access to medications and medical equipment is inconsistent, and prescriptions may vary widely in availability and price. Modern medical care and medicines are not typically available outside of Tripoli and other major cities. Treatment of severe medical conditions may require medical evacuation. Serious disease risks in Libya include typhoid, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and rabies. Travellers are at risk of contracting these diseases anywhere in Libya. The tap water is not safe to drink.

Transport & Infrastructure Risk

Transportation and infrastructure in Libya are of inferior quality, though its telecommunications sector remains superior to that of most other African countries. Libya has a high rate of fatal road accidents due to poor traffic law enforcement, hazardous road conditions, and reckless driving habits. While paved roads are common in urban areas, many rural roads are unpaved. Numerous militia-run checkpoints segment major roads throughout Libya, and those staffing checkpoints often detain people without reason. Within Tripoli, public transportation is limited and risky. Taxis are available for hire, but drivers are often reckless, untrained, and usually do not speak English. The internet in Libya is heavily monitored by the Libyan government, militias, and Libyan Intelligence Services. Journalists and reporters working on sensitive issues are often targeted by unidentified assailants, and selective filtering or blocking of internet access may occur. Libya also suffers from widespread power outages caused by fuel shortages. Libya's power grid is not always reliable.

Choosing the Right Insurance for Your Trip to Libya

Many insurers exclude cover for travel to Libya. It is vital to check that your policy includes journeys to this nation. Confirm if your policy coverage includes medical expenses, repatriation, crisis management, and kidnap-for-ransom cover. Standards of medical care are inconsistent and generally poor. Medical evacuation will be necessary for critical care.

Required Vaccinations:

• None

Pre-Trip Checklist:

• Carry a copy of your passport.
• Bring a necessary supply of prescription medication.
• Bring a copy of your prescription in case medication is lost or stolen.
• Consider bringing mosquito repellent, long sleeves, and pants.
• Bring a burner phone or laptop.
• Use a VPN on all internet-connected devices and download the VPN prior to travel.

LGBT Travel Advice for Libya

Travelling to Libya as an LGBTQ+ individual presents significant risks due to the country's conservative societal norms, legal framework, and security concerns. Overall, LGBTQ+ travellers face significant risks and should exercise extreme caution. It's advisable to research local laws and customs, avoid overt displays of affection in public, and maintain a low profile regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Connecting with local LGBTQ+ communities or support networks is not recommended due to the risks involved.