Northern Mariana Islands Country Report

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI, Northern Mariana Islands) is a US commonwealth in the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Guam. Comprised of 14 islands, the largest by landmass and population is Saipan, which is home to most government offices.

The territory faces a few security threats. Petty crimes may occur and typically involve burglary and theft. Criminals often target vehicles and accommodations, especially in Saipan. Violent crimes are rare. Protests are relatively rare and often related to US military activities and have previously occurred to denounce live-fire exercises, as well as social and economic issues. Demonstrations rarely result in violence. Kidnappings occur infrequently and usually target local residents. Police are generally proficient in English and respond promptly to incidents. The Northern Mariana Islands faces a somewhat elevated conflict risk due to its relative proximity to North Korea and Pyongyang's previous threats to launch missiles at US military sites in neighboring Guam.

Infrastructure is generally adequate in the CNMI, though infrastructure is likely to be inadequate in more rural areas. Road quality is relatively high on major islands, especially in Rota, Saipan, and Tinian. Roadways in urban areas tend to be paved, though roads in rural areas are usually of lower quality. Transport services are limited, with no public bus or train services. Taxis are available in major areas of the territory. People may rent scooters or mopeds. Shuttle services operate from most hotels and shopping centers. Ferry services operate between Saipan and Tinian. While Saipan International Airport (SPN) is the main airport in the territory, other notable airports are Tinian (TNI) and Rota (ROP) international airports.

Electricity is supplied by the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation (CUC) and is generally reliable. However, inclement weather may cause power outages. Internet services are available territorywide, though quality may vary by locale. The threat of cyberattacks remains low. Drinking water may be unsafe in rural areas.

Tropical storms and typhoons may impact the CNMI, especially May-November. The climate can also be quite hot and humid, leading to a risk of dehydration and/or heat stroke. Earthquakes are also commonly felt within the territory; while most quakes do not exceed magnitude 5.0, larger earthquakes have occurred near islands in the territory in previous years.

The Mariana Islands experience sporadic protests linked to military activities, social, and economic issues. These demonstrations are seldom violent. The crime rate is generally low, yet travelers should safeguard personal belongings due to occasional petty theft. Kidnapping, terrorism, and piracy risks are minimal. While the threat of armed conflict is low, proximity to North Korea presents limited risk. Security services are reliable and pose minimal concerns.

Infrastructure is generally adequate in the CNMI, though infrastructure is likely to be inadequate in more rural areas. Road quality is relatively high on major islands, especially in Rota, Saipan, and Tinian. Roadways in urban areas tend to be paved, though roads in rural areas are usually of lower quality. Transport services are limited, with no public bus or train services. Taxis are available in major areas of the territory. People may rent scooters or mopeds. Shuttle services operate from most hotels and shopping centers. Ferry services operate between Saipan and Tinian. While Saipan International Airport (SPN) is the main airport in the territory, other notable airports are Tinian (TNI) and Rota (ROP) international airports.

The Northern Mariana Islands has a tropical climate and it is typically hot and humid all year round. There is a slightly cooler and drier season from December-June and hotter and wetter season July-November. The islands are located in a seismically active zone and are also prone to typhoons.

Healthcare facilities in the Northern Mariana Islands are limited and inadequate, however, private medical care in Saipan meets international standards. Evacuation to the United States may be required for complex medical emergencies. Health insurance is recommended for extended stays. Tap water is unsafe to drink, use only bottled or boiled water.

The Northern Mariana Islands maintain a commonwealth government with a fair level of stability, characterized by a representative democratic system led by a governor as head of government and a President as ceremonial head of state. Legislative power resides in the Commonwealth Legislature, composed of a House of Representatives and a Senate. The region's regulatory frameworks are well-established, with strong enforcement and a high degree of transparency in public institutions, resulting in a low risk of corruption. The judiciary, including the Supreme Court, operates effectively and independently, contributing to the fair enforcement of the rule of law. As of 2023, the Northern Mariana Islands are not subject to any active international sanctions.