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Kazakhstan
- The main risk facing travelers in Kazakhstan is petty crime and hazardous driving conditions.
- Be aware of prevailing societal and cultural sensitivities; avoid engaging in political or religious discussions.
- Hazardous driving conditions and poorly maintained roadways are significant risks, especially during severe weather conditions.
Risk Factors
- Foreign nationals are known to be targeted by petty and opportunist criminals, mainly due to perceived wealth. The risk of petty crime (e.g., pickpocketing and snatch and grab theft) is higher near Western hotels, markets in Almaty and Astana, and on public transport.
- Although rare, violent crime, including assaults and muggings, has previously been reported in cities such as Aktau and Atyrau. Stay in well-lit, populated areas during nighttime to reduce the risk of muggings and robberies.
- Organized criminal groups also operate in the country, though are unlikely to target foreigners.
- Exercise caution when dealing with local law enforcement as police have been known to be poorly-trained and to engage in corrupt practices. If stopped, request the officer’s name and badge number and note you will need to communicate with your respective diplomatic embassy or consulate.
- State sponsored surveillance is a known issue. Limit sensitive online activity while in-country along with sensitive personal and business data carried on electronic devices. Consider the use of a VPN (virtual private network) for enhanced security and privacy.
- Civil unrest and protests have historically been rare.
- Widespread social unrest occurred in 2022 that caused hundreds of fatalities. Although well-attended demonstrations are uncommon, the security forces can forcibly disperse protesters, raising the risk of clashes and incidental risks to bystanders.
- The risk of unrest is higher near energy facilities in western regions and near the border with Kyrgyzstan.
- Self-driving is not advised due to hazardous driving conditions and poorly maintained roads.
- Taxis booked in advance by reputable hotels or agencies are safer than those hailed on the street. Ride-sharing apps (e.g., Yandex GO) are available in major cities, although the quality of vehicles differs greatly.
- It is unsafe to travel long distances by road during winter due to the possibility of severe weather conditions; this risk is exacerbated by the lack of emergency response.
- Public transportation (i.e., trains and buses) has an average safety record. Crowded buses should be avoided.
- Kazakhstan experiences air quality issues in industrial cities like Almaty, Astana, and Karaganda due to pollution from coal power plants, especially in the winter.
- Sensitive groups (e.g., those with respiratory conditions) may reduce risk by monitoring air quality indices (AQI) using apps like AirVisual, avoiding outdoor activities during high pollution days, wearing N95 masks when necessary, and staying in accommodations with air purifiers.
- Behavior which disrespects local customs and religious beliefs can invoke a hostile reaction, especially in rural areas.
- There are no laws discriminating against LGBTQ+ individuals, though social attitudes and public opinion can be hostile outside of urban areas.
- Observe local customs by dressing conservatively and avoiding public criticism of the government or discussion of sensitive topics.