Risk Level & Key Points
Risk Level:
● Entire Country
Level 1: Exercise caution. (Unchanged)
Key Points:
● In November 2023, both the presidential and parliamentary elections were held, and opposition candidate Boakai was elected as president, assuming office officially in January 2024. Both elections were conducted without major issues.
● Be vigilant to avoid falling victim to general crime.
● Terrorist incidents by Islamist extremist groups are frequent in West African countries, so make an effort to obtain the latest security information and take appropriate and adequate safety precautions based on the situation.
Details
1. Overview
(1) In November 2023, both the presidential and parliamentary elections were held, and in January 2024, President Boakai succeeded President Weah. Despite concerns over the situation during the election period and after the results were announced, both elections proceeded without major issues.
(2) In West Africa, terrorist attacks by Islamist extremist groups are frequent. Although no specific activities by anti-government or international terrorist organizations have been confirmed in Liberia at present, caution is still necessary.
In recent years, there has been a global trend of terrorist attacks targeting places with minimal security or surveillance, where large numbers of people gather (soft targets). Tourist areas, event venues, restaurants, hotels, shopping malls, public transportation, and religious facilities are particularly susceptible to becoming targets, so constant vigilance is required.
Be fully aware that terrorism can occur anywhere and that Japanese nationals could also be targeted. Make it a point to obtain the latest security information through sources like the “Tabe-Registry,” the Overseas Safety website, and news reports, and implement appropriate and adequate safety measures based on the situation to avoid becoming involved in terrorism or kidnappings.
2. Regional Situation
Entire Country
Level 1: Exercise caution. (Unchanged)
(1) Capital Monrovia
The capital city of Monrovia is overcrowded, with a high unemployment rate, and general crime is rampant. Crime rates are particularly high at night, so it is advised to avoid traveling after dark as much as possible.
(2) Other Regions
In other regions, the transportation network from urban areas like the capital is underdeveloped and inconvenient, so the ability of security authorities to respond is limited, requiring significant caution. There are many reports of general crime groups, such as thieves, using border escape routes to evade authorities. Since police and immigration personnel are also lacking near the borders, extra vigilance is necessary.
For those planning to travel to or stay in Liberia, it is important to stay updated on the latest information from the Embassy of Japan in Ghana (which oversees Liberia), local authorities, and news reports, and to pay close attention to your personal safety.
3. Precautions During Stay
While staying in Liberia, exercise caution in your actions to avoid danger. Additionally, before traveling, ensure you gather the latest information from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Embassy of Japan in Ghana, and local authorities.
There is no Japanese embassy or consulate in Liberia. In the event of an incident or accident, contact the Embassy of Japan in Ghana.
When traveling abroad, make sure to inform family, friends, or your workplace of your schedule and contact information at your destination to prepare for any emergencies.
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