Dominica Country Report

The Commonwealth of Dominica is a low-income, developing country located in the eastern Caribbean, flanked to the north by Guadeloupe and to the south by Martinique. The country is governed as a stable parliamentary democratic republic within the Commonwealth. Currently, agriculture and tourism are the mainstays of the economy, with efforts to further bolster the eco-tourism industry ongoing. Dominica maintains good foreign relations with the US and the European Union but also with other countries, including Cuba, China, and Venezuela.

Generally, the primary threat to foreign travelers is petty theft; however, more violent crime has also been reported. Environmental hazards include hurricanes, earthquakes as well as floods and landslides. Due to the devastation wrought by Tropical Storm Erika in 2015 and, more recently, Hurricane Maria in 2017, infrastructure has been repeatedly devastated but has slowly recovered.

The primary threat to foreign travelers is petty, opportunistic crime, although violent incidents can and do occur, particularly after dark. The country does not face any internal or external conflict threat and the terrorist risk is minimal. Unrest is uncommon outside of Roseau and Portsmouth.

There are no safety concerns over air travel.

Road conditions are poor and unsafe. Roads are narrow with steep inclines throughout the island. There are few guardrails in areas that have precipitous drop-offs from the road.

The ports authority of Dominica provides safe and efficient transportation system that ensures safe trading in the ports and improved the economic prosperity of the country.

Utilities are good.

The Government of Dominica has not adopted a cybercrime strategy. However, a National Cyber Security strategy has been under development.

Dominica has a tropical climate and is generally warm year-round. As in all Caribbean countries, Dominica is prone to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season June-November, with activity peaking around August-October. Environmental hazards also include landslides and flooding in low-lying areas, especially during the rainy season June-November. The region is at risk from earthquakes and tremors.

The disease threat in Dominica is comparable to that of most other Caribbean locales. Mosquito-borne and insect-related diseases are present. Vaccines before travel are also required, for example, for yellow fever. Medical facilities and supplies are likely to be limited outside of Roseau. Access to mental health services is limited. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

Dominica is a stable democracy. Corruption is a minor concern, and rule of law is generally upheld.