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Reviewed 29 September 2009, 11:29 NZDT
Still current at:
08 November 2009
There is extreme risk to your security in Afghanistan and we advise against all travel. The hostile security situation and frequent kidnapping of foreigners presents a significant risk to New Zealanders in Afghanistan. New Zealanders currently in Afghanistan with concerns for their safety are advised to depart.
New Zealanders who decide to travel to Afghanistan against our advice should ensure that appropriate personal security protection measures are in place at all times. We strongly recommend you consult a reputable security company (with experience in Afghanistan), for advice on security arrangements. Security arrangements should be reviewed on a regular basis. Such measures may mitigate the risks to your safety but cannot eliminate them entirely.
There is an ongoing and significant risk from insurgents throughout the country. Suicide bomb attacks, roadside bombs, car bombs, rocket attacks, small arms attacks and political assassinations occur frequently. Attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in Afghanistan and often target foreign or Western interests and organisations. Possible targets include (but are not limited to) embassies, hotels, restaurants, markets, shops, aid agencies, Afghan government buildings, Kabul International Airport, transport infrastructure, multinational forces, Afghan security forces.
Kidnapping for ransom and the hostage taking of foreign nationals is a significant problem throughout Afghanistan. In 2008, there were more than 300 kidnapping incidents in Afghanistan. Foreign nationals (including aid workers, journalists and those working for non-governmental organisations and international organisations) continue to be targeted.
Road travel in Afghanistan is extremely dangerous. Suicide bombers in vehicles have attacked convoys and often use fake checkpoints to launch attacks. Roadside bombs are also causing an increasing number of casualties. The United Nations has suspended road travel to many parts of the country due to the dangers involved.
Beyond Kabul the security situation is unpredictable and volatile. Many areas of Afghanistan are controlled by warlords and the Taliban. The terrorist organisation al-Qaeda also has an active presence in parts of the country. Violent crime such as carjacking, armed robbery and banditry is also an issue, particularly in rural areas.
Unexploded landmines and munitions are a hazard throughout the country.
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Afghanistan, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens who get into trouble is severely limited.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Afghanistan should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel in Afghanistan – exclusions may well apply. Only very limited medical facilities are available in Afghanistan and there are shortages of even the most basic medical supplies.
New Zealanders who decide to travel or live in Afghanistan despite this advisory are strongly advised to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Central Asia
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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