Cayman Islands Country Report

The Cayman Islands is a British overseas territory that consists of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. The territory is located in the Caribbean Sea south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica. The capital, George Town, is located on Grand Cayman, which is by far the most populous of the islands, though Grand Cayman's eastern side is mostly unpopulated forest. The other islands, especially Little Cayman, are sparsely populated. The territory is politically stable, has few protests, and sees low rates of violent crime. Tropical cyclones pose a threat to the Cayman Islands during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs June-November. The economy of the Cayman Islands is heavily dependent on tourism and offshore banking. The existence of money-laundering operations within the territory's financial system is a perennial issue.

The Cayman Islands is generally a secure location. The crime rate is low, protests seldom occur, and there is no history of terrorism or political violence. The main security threat is non-violent, petty crime. However, such crimes are still relatively rare.

The Cayman Islands boast high-quality infrastructure, including reliable telecommunication, healthcare facilities, and well-maintained roads. Cyber attacks do not generally pose a risk to the islands.

The Cayman Islands has a tropical climate and is generally hot and humid year-round. The rainy season occurs May-October, with September and October the wettest months. Tropical storm systems can impact the islands during the Atlantic hurricane season June-November, with peak activity likely August-October. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge can lead to flooding and disruptions during the passing of storm systems. The Cayman Islands are located in a seismically active area, and although most tremors are minor-to-moderate in nature, large earthquakes periodically impact the islands and can cause damage and casualties.

Local transmission of mosquito-borne viruses such as chikungunya and dengue is highest during the wet season. Healthcare in the Cayman Islands sufficiently addresses general patient needs, including specialized services. Health insurance is mandatory for all citizens. Tap water is safe to drink islandwide.

The Cayman Islands operate under a parliamentary democracy with the British Monarch as the head of state, represented locally by a governor. The territory's political system uses a unicameral legislature, the Legislative Assembly, with 19 members. They are directly elected from single-member electoral districts using a first-past-the-post voting system. Elections take place every four years and pass peacefully.