Pakistan continues to be a dangerous destination for global tourists, which can be reflected in the recent decision of the UK that still advises its citizens against travelling in different parts of the terror-stricken country.

UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has highlighted issues of terrorism, political instability, lawlessness and blasphemy among others in Pakistan as possible threats to British nationals visiting the country.

“There is a high threat of terrorism and sectarian violence throughout Pakistan… If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release,” warned the FCDO advisory.[1]

It also cautioned British nationals about crimes from theft to kidnapping. “Street crime is a risk. Take sensible measures to protect yourself and your belongings… British nationals of Pakistani origin have been targeted by criminals, including kidnappers, as they are often perceived as being wealthier than locals,” the advisory explains.[2]

Many other countries have already expressed concerns over travelling to Pakistan. Canada has asked its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution due to the unpredictable security situation. “There is a threat of terrorism, civil unrest, sectarian violence and kidnapping,” according to an advisory issued by the Canadian government. Not just in the conflict areas along the Afghanistan border, but it even sought to avoid non-essential travel to Pakistan’s financial capital Karachi. 

“Extremist groups are present in some parts of the city and there have been terrorist attacks in recent years on high-profile targets, including the Stock Exchange and Chinese Consulate. Carefully plan any travel to, or in the city,” reads the advisory.

Shockingly, three tourists from the UK, Iran and Italy were harassed by policemen a few months ago. “Many times, they asked me for my WhatsApp number and kept on insisting. When I asked them the reason, they would start insulting me. At the start I gave my phone number to some of them and they started asking for pictures and sending creepy messages,” said a woman tourist.[3]

Canada government also warned women and members of LGBTQI+ of discrimination and violent attacks from Pakistani people. “Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Gender-based violence is common in Pakistan… Human rights organisations have reported discrimination and violence being committed against 2SLGBTQI+ persons in Pakistan, including the denial of basic rights and services, sexual violence and murder,” reads the advisory.  

The US too has not downgraded the risk associated with travelling in Pakistan and sought its nationals to have a contingency plan for emergencies. “Reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities,” said the US Bureau of Consular Affairs.[4]  

Pakistan is not safe even for citizens of its ally, China. Many Chinese people were killed in targeted attacks across Pakistan. Recently, the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan reminded “Chinese citizens, enterprises in Pakistan to pay close attention to the security situation, enhance  security alerts, strengthen security measures, and make every effort to take safety precautions.”[5] Beijing also instructed the Islamabad government to take “practical and effective” measures to protect the safety of Chinese citizens.[6]

Australia which updated its travel advisory in relation to Pakistan has asked its citizens to reconsider travel plans to Pakistan due to the unpredictable security situation. “Reconsider your need to travel to Pakistan overall due to the volatile security situation and threat of terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and the risk of civil unrest. Higher levels apply in some areas,” noted the Australian government’s advisory. 

New Zealand, Finland and Germany are among the major countries that expressed concerns over terrorism, religious extremism, political and social unrest as well as health hazards, pollution and natural calamities in Pakistan while advising against their citizens visiting the Islamic country.[7][8][9] “New Zealanders in Pakistan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air,” advises the New Zealand government.

END.

[1] https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/pakistan/safety-and-security

[2] https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/pakistan/safety-and-security

[3] https://www.dawn.com/news/1809348

[4] https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/pakistan-travel-advisory.html

[5] http://pk.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zbgx/202403/t20240326_11271216.htm

[6] https://www.independent.co.uk/asia/south-asia/china-killed-pakistan-suicide-attack-balochistan-b2519395.html

[7] https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/pakistan

[8] https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/PK

[9] https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/ReiseUndSicherheit/pakistansicherheit/204974