Vanuatu Country Report

Vanuatu has been a stable democracy since achieving independence in 1980. The coalition government faces few threats to its authority, although political divisions along Anglo-French lines and the relatively high turnover rate of prime ministers and most cabinet positions have led to a certain level of political instability. However, the presence of a strong judiciary has ensured that the occasional political turmoil does not affect the country's stability. There is no discernible threat of armed conflict or political violence. Demonstrations and strikes are occasionally staged but are generally peaceful. Levels of criminal activity are low in Vanuatu with the primary risk to travelers being petty theft and, on rare occasion, more violent offenses such as assault, burglary, armed robbery and murder.

There is no significant risk associated with air, maritime and overland travel to Vanuatu, although the country's transport infrastructure is generally limited. Medical care is basic and expensive. Vanuatu has limited transport, healthcare, electricity, and telecommunications infrastructure that remains prone to disruptions.

Levels of criminal activity are low in Vanuatu but have increased in recent years. Most criminal activity relates to petty theft such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, although an increasing number of residential burglaries have also been reported. The threat from criminal activity is typically higher at night, particularly around popular tourist locations and nightspots in Port Vila. Demonstrations and strikes are occasionally staged, particularly over socio-economic and environmental issues, but are generally peaceful.

Air travel in Vanuatu is considered safe, however, flights are subject to frequent delays and cancelations and domestic services are generally unreliable.

Many roads in the country are not paved and can become hazardous following heavy rain.

Access to utilities including electricity is poor.

The two seaports are considered relatively inefficient.

Vanuatu has suffered cyber attacks.

Vanuatu has a hot, humid tropical climate and changes in the temperature from season to season are strongly tied to changes in the surrounding ocean temperature. The country is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire and sees relatively high levels of seismic activity. Volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis can occur. There is also a significant risk of strong winds, heavy rains, flooding, and landslides during the tropical cyclone season from November to April. Vanuatu's transport, communications, and electricity infrastructure is susceptible to significant disruption following severe weather or major seismic activity.

Medical facilities in Vanuatu are limited but generally adequate for minor treatment. More serious medical cases may require air evacuation to a country with more advanced medical facilities, typically Australia or New Zealand. Some pharmaceuticals are in short supply or unavailable, particularly in more remote areas where access to pharmacies is limited.

Malaria transmission is common from December to May. The country also suffers regular dengue outbreaks during the rainy season, including in the capital.

Political divisions along Anglo-French lines and the high turnover rate of prime ministers and cabinet positions due to no-confidence votes undermine political stability. Vanuatu continues to be affected by corruption due to poor funding and lack of implementation of laws outside of urban centers. Vanuatu's police force is small and generally ineffective outside of Efate and Espiritu Santo islands, where resources are focused.