A recent report by London-based health and security service firm International SOS identifies the most dangerous countries to visit in 2025. The report assesses security, healthcare, and climate risks in these nations. The study examines the countries that pose the greatest threats to travelers, factoring in a variety of risk categories, including political violence, extreme weather events, infectious diseases, and social unrest.
Countries with Extreme Risk
At the top of the list are nations facing severe security threats, many of which also experience significant healthcare challenges. Yemen, Libya, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine are among the countries with the highest risk ratings for 2025. These regions continue to struggle with ongoing conflicts, unstable political climates, and humanitarian crises, making them extremely dangerous for travelers.
Several African nations, including Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic, rank among the highest-risk countries. These areas face a combination of armed conflict, political instability, and public health concerns that pose significant threats to those who venture there.
Countries with High-Security Risks
In addition to the extreme-risk nations, several countries with high-security risks, though not at the extreme level, were also highlighted. These include Myanmar (Burma), Papua New Guinea, Pakistan, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Mali, Venezuela, Haiti, and Honduras. While these nations are not experiencing the same level of conflict as the extreme-risk countries, they still present considerable challenges due to ongoing social unrest, political instability, and a high likelihood of infectious disease outbreaks.
Geopolitical Tensions and the Growing Risk
Sally Llewellyn, Global Security Director at International SOS, emphasized the significant impact of geopolitical tensions on security risk ratings. She noted that the expansion of conflict in places like Sudan and Lebanon has intensified risks for travelers, with the violence now affecting more population centers. These changes, along with other ongoing challenges, have contributed to the heightened security risk ratings for these regions.
