Syria Country Report

Syria is an EXTREME RISK country. Following the collapse of the Assad regime the nation is experiencing heightened instability as various factions vie for control. Violent crime, terrorism, and the degraded state of infrastructure and medical facilities pose severe risks to travellers.

Essential Precautions:

• Avoid all travel outside of Damascus and other government-controlled territory.
• 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.
• Only use secure transportation.
• Do not photograph government buildings, civil infrastructure, or military installations.

Insurance becomes a priority if you intend to travel or work in Syria. Travelling to Syria presents significant risks due to ongoing conflict, violence, terrorism, and political instability. 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:

Conflict and Violence

Syria has been engulfed in a complex civil war since 2011, resulting in widespread destruction, displacement, and loss of life. The conflict involves various armed groups, including government forces, opposition factions, extremist organisations, and foreign actors. Syria's ongoing conflict has entered a new phase following the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's regime, with rebel forces capturing Damascus and other key cities. The resulting power vacuum has led to clashes among rival factions, including remnants of the Assad loyalists, extremist groups like ISIS, and other rebel factions. Bombings, armed skirmishes, and shelling are common, especially in northern and eastern Syria. Civilians and foreign nationals are at significant risk in these areas.

Terrorism

Syria has been a focal point for terrorist activity, with groups such as ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) and al-Qaeda operating in the country. These terrorist organisations have carried out attacks targeting civilians, government institutions, and security forces. Foreign nationals, including tourists and journalists, have been kidnapped, executed, or subjected to other forms of violence by terrorist groups.

Crime and Security Concerns

Since the collapse of the Assad regime, Syria has descended further into lawlessness, with criminal activity and opportunistic violence escalating across the country. Foreign nationals, particularly journalists and aid workers, are at heightened risk of abduction by armed groups, criminal gangs, and opportunists seeking ransom or political leverage. Kidnappings often result in severe mistreatment or extortion and have, in some cases, led to public executions by extremist groups.

Urban centers like Damascus and Aleppo, while somewhat more stable, are not immune to crime. Markets, public transportation hubs, and the Old City districts of Damascus are hotspots for petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams targeting foreign visitors. Carjackings and armed robberies have also become increasingly common, particularly in areas experiencing limited law enforcement.

In regions under the control of extremist factions or fragmented rebel groups, travellers may face direct targeting for their perceived political affiliations or foreign status. Criminal factions and war profiteers have expanded their activities, smuggling operations, and extortion networks due to the lack of central authority. Travellers should remain aware that government checkpoints, formerly sources of security, may now be occupied by armed groups demanding bribes or using violence to assert control.

The overall absence of effective policing or judicial systems makes any form of justice or resolution unlikely. Travellers are strongly advised to maintain a low profile, avoid discussing political matters, and exercise extreme caution when interacting with local populations, even in seemingly safe environments.

Humanitarian Crisis

Syria's humanitarian situation has deteriorated further due to the regime collapse. Over 14 million people remain displaced, and access to essential services such as healthcare, clean water, and shelter is limited. Aid organisations face significant challenges operating in the country, and travellers may encounter displacement camps with dire living conditions.

Health Risks

Syria's healthcare system has collapsed in the years since the civil war began. Limited emergency health services exist in Damascus only, but suffer from a critical lack of supplies, staff, and training. Both regime and rebel forces' clinics and field hospitals are frequently targeted in attacks. Common disease risks in Syria include hepatitis, typhoid, rabies, and polio. Malaria, cholera, and typhoid have also been infrequently detected in Syria. Travellers are most at risk of these diseases in rural areas during the summer months from May to October. The tap water is not safe to drink.

Travel Restrictions and Documentation

Travel to Syria remains strongly discouraged by most governments. Entry requirements, including visas, may vary depending on the region and controlling faction. Authorities and armed groups frequently impose additional restrictions on movement within the country. Ensure all documentation is in order and anticipate delays or difficulties at checkpoints.

Legal and Political Considerations

The collapse of the Assad regime has created legal and political uncertainties. Arbitrary detentions, harassment, and abuse by various armed groups and security personnel are significant risks. Travellers should avoid political discussions and exercise extreme caution when interacting with authorities.

Transport & Infrastructure Risk

The conflict has left much of Syria's transport and communications infrastructure in ruins. Roads are often unsafe due to unexploded ordnance and ongoing clashes. Power outages are common, and public transportation is unreliable. Using secure and pre-arranged transport through vetted providers is essential.

Environmental Risk

Syria continues to face environmental challenges, including wildfires, drought, and extreme heat, particularly between May and October. Earthquake risks also remain due to the country's proximity to the Dead Sea Rift fault line. Disaster response capabilities are limited, compounding the risks posed by natural events.

Overall, travel to Syria is extremely dangerous and is strongly discouraged. Travellers should prioritise their safety and well-being and avoid all non-essential travel to the country. It's essential to stay informed about the situation in Syria, heed travel advisories from relevant authorities, and consider alternative travel destinations with greater stability and safety.

Choosing the Right Cover for Your Trip to Syria

Most insurers exclude coverage for Syria due to its extreme risk level. Travellers must ensure their policy includes medical evacuation, crisis management, and kidnap and ransom cover. Evacuation for medical or security emergencies is likely to be required in any critical situation.

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 Syria

Travelling to Syria as an LGBTQ+ individual poses extreme risks due to the country's conservative social attitudes, legal framework, and ongoing conflict. Overall, travelling to Syria as an LGBTQ+ individual is extremely dangerous and is strongly discouraged. LGBTQ+ travellers should prioritise their safety and well-being and consider alternative travel destinations where they can travel more freely and safely. It's essential to research and understand the risks thoroughly before considering travel to Syria and to take necessary precautions to protect oneself from harm.