Destinations in Europe

Europe

Security

There is an increased global risk of terrorism. No country is immune from a terrorist attack, and no person is immune from becoming a victim of an attack. Terrorists have little regard for civilian casualties and, in many cases, attacks are designed to maximise casualties.

On 3 October 2010 the United States government issued a travel alert alerting US citizens to the potential for terrorist attacks in Europe and reminding them of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Several European Governments have also recently upgraded their threat levels. New Zealanders are reminded of the need for vigilance.

Although New Zealand travellers are unlikely to be targeted deliberately, they are usually indistinguishable from any “Western” tourist, and frequent places where other Western tourists are found. This puts New Zealanders at the same risk as others.

Wherever you are, you should keep yourself informed about the latest alerts and stay aware of your surroundings in areas where large numbers of people congregate, such as shopping malls, markets, monuments, demonstrations and on any public transport.

Terrorist attacks have taken place in many major European cities and the region remains vulnerable to attacks from Islamic and other extremist groups.

In Russia, Moscow has experienced a number of bombings carried out by Chechen separatists. They have been responsible for a series of incidents in towns in southern Russia (the northern Caucasus) and particularly the province of Chechnya itself.

In Turkey, Kurdish separatists have carried out attacks in Istanbul and other areas popular with tourists. Such attacks are likely to continue.

Extreme risk

Destinations in Europe where we advise against all travel

Russian Federation North Caucasus region including Chechnya, Dagestan, North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Karbadino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus area), the south-east parts of the Stavropol region and Karachay-Cherkessia

High risk

Destinations in Europe were we advise against tourist and other non-essential travel

Albania The north eastern border area between Albania and Kosovo
Kosovo North Mitrovica and the northern municipalities of Leposavic, Zubin Potok and Zvecan
Turkey Areas close to the border with Iran, Iraq and Syria

Some risk

Destinations in Europe where we advise caution

Albania except the north eastern border area between Albania and Kosovo (high risk)
France
Germany
Greece
Italy
Kosovo except in North Mitrovica and the northern municipalities of Leposavic, Zubin Potok and Zvecan (all high risk)
Russian Federation except North Caucasus region including Chechnya, Dagestan, North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Karbadino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus area), the south-east parts of the Stavropol region and Karachay-Cherkessia (all extreme risk)
Republic of Moldova Transdniestria (North Moldova)
Serbia
Spain
Turkey except areas close to the border with Iran, Iraq and Syria (high risk)
United Kingdom