Security Overview for Kyrgyzstan

A popular revolution overthrew former President Kurmanbek Bakiyev in April 2010. Two months later, mass ethnic violence between ethnic Kyrgyz and Uzbeks killed at least 400 people (mostly the minority Uzbeks) in the south. A popularly-elected parliament has since taken power, but the political situation is unstable. Presidential elections are slated for October 2011 and unrest could rise in the run-up to the event. Demonstrations can break out with little notice, with the most popular locations in Bishkek being the White House presidential administration building on Chuy Avenue, the Zhogorku Kenesh (parliament) building on Abdumomunov Street, and Ala-Too Square on Chuy Avenue.

Groups including Bakiyev's former associates are dissatisfied with the new government and may be passively or actively working to destabilize the country; these groups could stage bombings or other disruptive acts. The central government's control over the military and security services is questionable, and Bakiyev-era officials in the south are at least partially independent of Bishkek. Ethnic tensions remain high in the south and a return to violence is possible, with the areas at most risk being Batken, Osh, and Jalalabad oblasts (provinces); avoid nonessential travel to these areas. Ethnic tensions also occasionally spark clashes between Kyrgyz and Chinese merchants.

Terrorism is not a significant problem, but incidents do occasionally occur. Islamist extremist groups may be increasing their presence, though it is unclear how severe this problem really is. The population is largely secular and not generally inclined to support such groups, but ethnic tensions, continuing widespread poverty, and weak security enforcement could allow extremists to flourish in the future.

Due to the porous border with China, human and drug smuggling are major problems. Urban areas including Bishkek have a high rate of both violent and petty crime, and foreigners, with their perceived wealth, are often targeted. Burglaries, auto theft, and pickpocketing are frequent occurrences; violent muggings are not uncommon, and while kidnappings are rare they are still a threat. Avoid nonessential travel after dark. If travel is unavoidable, move in groups along well-lit main streets and stay alert, especially at hotels, bars, and other locations that attract foreigners. Use credit and debit cards with caution due to the threat of fraud.

Taxi drivers have been known to extort money from passengers, and in some cases airport taxi drivers have apparently colluded with airport personnel to identify targets. Arrange transport from the airport in advance and verify that persons greeting you are legitimate. Use only radio-dispatched, marked taxis; do not flag taxis from the street or enter a cab that already contains passengers.

Kyrgyz police are not as well-trained, paid, equipped, or capable as those in Western countries. Most officers do not speak English and corruption is a serious problem. Police - or persons claiming to be police - may demand payment of "fines" for alleged infractions. Always demand identification when stopped by police, as Kyrgyz law mandates that officers provide it if asked, and record the officer's name and badge number. If possible, do not obey any demands without this information; if stopped, try to move to a public location, preferably under video surveillance, while dealing with police. Contact your embassy immediately if in doubt or if accused of a crime.

Fines are paid at local banks, not given directly to police officers; be sure to get a receipt. Police are not allowed to stop and search you under normal circumstances, but Kyrgyz law requires that foreigners carry their passport and Kyrgyz visa with them at all times and police have the right to demand such identification. Always carry these documents with you, but ensure that copies are secured in a safe place.

Security outside urban areas is poor. Landmines are a hazard in Batken oblast and along the Kyrgyz-Tajik border. The Kyrgyz-Tajik border is not well-patrolled and is frequently lawless. Only use official border crossings.

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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.