Solomon Islands Country Report

The Solomon Islands have a parliamentary democratic government and are part of the Commonwealth of Nations. The country was affected by outbreaks of ethnic violence between 1998 and 2003 which damaged much of the infrastructure. Although the situation stabilized following the deployment of a regional peacekeeping force, ethnic tensions still exist and there remains a risk of civil unrest.

Although crime rates have fallen in recent years, levels of criminal activity remain high in some areas. Petty criminal activity occurs on a regular basis, while violent crime against foreign travelers is not uncommon. Firearms are widespread and armed robbery is a risk to both visitors and locals. Rural Guadalcanal and the northern half of Malaita are considered to be high crime areas, although vehicle theft and burglary are common in Honiara. The road to the airport at Lungga Bridge has been the target of illegal roadblocks, which have been used to rob those attempting to pass through them.

Storm systems are known to affect the country between November and May, and subsequent severe weather can cause travel and service delivery disruption. Heavy rainfall can also trigger landslides and flooding.

Crime remains a serious problem in many areas of the Solomon Islands. Opportunistic crime is common in urban centers, particularly Honiara, and police response capabilities are generally limited. Incidents of violent crime have also increased in recent years. Rural Guadalcanal and the northern half of Malaita remain areas of concern with regard to criminal activity. Protests are relatively frequent in urban centers. While generally peaceful, rallies have occasionally turned violent and resulted in arrests.

There are no particular concerns over air travel, although domestic flights can be unreliable.

Paved roads are found only around Honiara. Most of the other roads are in poor condition and heavily potholed.

The ports are considered efficient.

Utilities provision is generally poor, but communications infrastructure is improving.

Cyber crime is an growing threat as the communications infrastructure is improving.

The climate across the islands is typically hot and humid. Swimming can be hazardous as some waters are highly polluted, especially in south Tarawa Lagoon, and sharks and sal-water crocodiles are present in some areas. The Solomon Islands are located in the Pacific Ring of Fire and are therefore highly susceptible to earthquakes and associated tsunamis. The country also has several active volcanoes that can pose considerable risk and is vulnerable to storm systems during the cyclone season between November and April.

Malaria and dengue fever are prevalent. Adequate healthcare facilities are available in Honiara and Auki. Access to pharmacies is adequate in urban areas but is extremely limited in rural regions. Tap water is unsafe to drink.

Corruption is generally considered endemic in most institutions in the Solomon Islands and is almost certain to remain an issue for business dealings despite ongoing good governance initiatives. The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force continues to suffer from limited resources and training and can be slow to respond to incidents. Although the islands have seen increased political stability since 2003, there remain concerns over the potential for unrest around elections and the government continues to face frequent internal challenges.