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Cote D'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
- The primary risk travelers face in Ivory Coast is crime, particularly in urban areas such as Abidjan. Common crimes include petty theft, armed robbery, and carjacking.
- Areas near the borders with Liberia, Mali, and Burkina Faso present higher risks due to the presence of armed groups and the potential for cross-border militant incursions.
- Well-attended demonstrations are common and can turn violent, especially during election periods or significant anniversaries. Major political developments can trigger widespread protests which can be highly disruptive and pose security risks.
Risk Factors
- Due to perceived wealth, foreign nationals are frequently the target of petty and opportunistic crime such as bag-snatching and pickpocketing. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and keep a low profile to reduce the risk of becoming a target. The central districts (e.g., Cocody, Bietry, Plateau, etc.) of Abidjan are known to be safe during daylight hours; however, movements should be limited after dark.
- Various criminal groups operate extensively in the country; the wide availability of firearms makes violent crime more likely. There is a higher likelihood of violent crimes, including armed robbery, in Abidjan's neighborhoods of Abobo, Adjame, and Yopougon.
- Gender-based violence continues to be a concern, though most incidents do not target foreign travelers.
- It is advisable to minimize movement in remote areas after dark, as there is a higher risk of theft and sexual assault after dark.
- Well-attended protests are common and often occur spontaneously and without prior warning. Protests can be highly disruptive and pose significant risks of violence as the security forces regularly use tear gas and other violent means to disperse protests. Steer clear of gatherings as they can quickly escalate.
- The risk of unrest is higher in northern regions due to long-standing tensions between local farmers and semi-nomadic migrants from Burkina Faso and Mali. These disputes can lead to violent protests and riots.
- Road safety is a major concern due to poorly maintained roads, inadequate street lighting, and generally unsafe driving conditions.
- Armed banditry and carjacking are risks, especially on highways and remote roads. It is advised to avoid night travel, particularly in rural areas, due to security risks and poor road conditions.
- Public transportation is often unreliable and not recommended due to safety and security concerns. Overcrowded vehicles, poorly maintained taxis, and unregulated informal transport options like "woro-woros" (shared taxis) and "gbakas" (minibuses) present risks to passengers. Additionally, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded public transportation.
- Whenever possible, book taxis through a hotel, a reputable service, or a ride-hailing app (i.e., Uber, Yango, or Heetch). This minimizes the risk of encountering unscrupulous drivers or unsafe vehicles.
- There are frequent police and military checkpoints across the country. Travelers may encounter requests for identification or bribes, especially on less-traveled roads.
- Terrorism is a moderate threat due to spillover effects from militant operations in neighboring countries and the wider Sahel region. The primary target is military personnel, though civilians and foreign nationals remain vulnerable.
- The risk of terrorism is higher in border areas, including in Savanes and Zanzan districts. Since 2021, the Ivory Coast has not experienced any incidents of terrorism.
- The legal environment in Ivory Coast can be strict with severe penalties for drug offenses.
- Same-sex relationships are legal, but public decency laws can impose fines or imprisonment for actions considered offensive.
- Photography near sensitive sites, including military areas and government buildings, is illegal and can lead to detention.