- Canada issued a new travel advisory adding Ecuador to a list of high-caution countries due to heightened security risks
- Key threats across all listed nations include violent crime, terrorism, and political instability or civil unrest
- Ecuador faces specific high risks from organized crime, drug trafficking-related violence, and minefields near the Peruvian border
- European nations on the list, including France, Spain, and the Netherlands, maintain a high terrorism threat level and face high rates of petty crime
Canada has issued a new travel advisory, adding Ecuador to a list of countries where Canadians are urged to exercise a high degree of caution due to heightened security risks. The list already includes nations such as France, the Netherlands, Spain, Peru, Bolivia, and the Philippines. The advisories cite various increasing threats, including violent crime, terrorism, and political unrest, which pose significant safety concerns for international travelers.
The advisory for Ecuador is particularly focused on escalating violence. Specific risks include high rates of organized crime, drug trafficking-related violence, gang activity, the presence of dangerous minefields near the Peruvian border, and ongoing terrorism threats. Certain regions within Ecuador, such as provinces near the Colombian border and coastal cities like Guayaquil, are identified as major hotspots for criminal and gang-related activities.
For European destinations like France, the Netherlands, and Spain, the advisories highlight the elevated and ongoing threat of terrorism, with public spaces and tourist attractions remaining vulnerable targets. In these countries, petty crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching is also rampant in crowded areas, requiring travelers to be vigilant.
In South America and Asia, Peru, Bolivia, and the Philippines each present distinct dangers. Peru is affected by domestic terrorism and drug trafficking in its VRAEM region, in addition to high crime rates. Bolivia faces political tensions, civil disturbances, and the potential for disruptive roadblocks, especially around election times. The Philippines, particularly the southern regions of Mindanao, remains a high-risk area for kidnapping and terrorism. Travelers to all flagged regions are strongly advised to stay informed, adhere to local curfews and regulations, and take comprehensive precautions to ensure their personal safety and security.
