Security Overview for Guatemala

Guatemala ended three decades of civil war in 1996, but the country still faces the daunting challenges of political reform, sharp socio-ethnic divisions, and endemic poverty. Guatemala's debilitating crime problem is fueled, in large part, by street gangs. Violent crime is the most serious threat faced by both visitors and residents. Guatemala's murder rate was 46 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2010. The national police force lacks the experience and funding necessary to effectively combat crime; as a result, the overall prosecution rate is just 3 percent. Extensive personal security precautions are needed to minimize the risk of assault in virtually all parts of the country. In recent years, foreigners have been victimized by armed robbers in urban settings as well as by rural bandit gangs that continue to plague the nation's roadways. Violent and petty street crimes are serious risks for travelers. Street criminals in Guatemala City have a justified reputation for being among the most brazen in Central America, often committing crimes in broad daylight.

Attacks on travelers in remote areas, particularly visitors to the ruins, are common. Hikers and trekkers should travel in large groups or with a reputable guide service. Overland travel through Guatemala is dangerous. Assaults on travelers in recent years underscore the dire security situation along Guatemala's highways. Carjacking in urban areas is common; many drivers do not stop at traffic lights or stop signs in the more dangerous areas. Radio-dispatched taxis hired at reputable hotels and airports are the safest, most reliable means of transportation for those who are not using private corporate vehicles. However, they provide no guarantee of personal security. Remain vigilant at all times. Do not hail taxis on the street due to the risk of assault and robbery from unlicensed "pirate" cab drivers. Avoid public transportation completely, especially in the capital, because of the high risk of criminal attacks.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes are common in Guatemala City and in rural areas of the country. Indigenous and civic groups frequently march in Guatemala City and block roads to protest against the government. Protests can sometimes become violent. In March 2010, a protester was shot during a confrontation between bus drivers and riders in Guatemala City.

There is little threat of terrorist activity in Guatemala.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.