Vanuatu Country Report
Vanuatu gained independence in 1980 and has since become a stable democracy. With political divisions along Anglo-French lines and relatively high turnover in the prime minister and most cabinet positions, the coalition government faces few threats to its authority. Political unrest. However, the presence of a strong judiciary ensures that occasional political disturbances do not affect the country’s stability. There is no apparent threat of armed conflict or political violence. Demonstrations and strikes occur from time to time but are usually peaceful. The level of criminal activity in Vanuatu is low and the main risk to travelers is petty theft, with the occasional occurrence of more violent crimes such as assault, robbery, armed robbery, and murder.
Although there are no significant risks associated with air, sea, or land travel to Vanuatu, the country’s transportation infrastructure is generally limited. Medical care is basic and expensive. Vanuatu’s transport, medical, electricity, and communications infrastructure is limited and remains vulnerable to disruption.
Last updated: September 2, 2023
Security
The level of criminal activity in Vanuatu is low, but has increased in recent years. Most of the criminal activity is related to petty theft such as pickpocketing and pickpocketing, but an increase in home theft has also been reported. The threat of criminal activity usually increases at night, especially around Port Vila’s popular tourist destinations and nightlife spots. Demonstrations and strikes, especially over socio-economic and environmental issues, may occur but are usually peaceful.
Last updated: May 16, 2022
Infrastructure
Air travel in Vanuatu is considered safe, but flights are often delayed or canceled and domestic services are generally unreliable.
Many of the country’s roads are not paved and can become dangerous after heavy rain.
Access to public facilities such as electricity is also poor.
These two ports are considered relatively inefficient.
Vanuatu has been cyberattacked.
Last updated: September 2, 2023
Environment
Vanuatu has a hot and humid tropical climate and seasonal temperature changes are strongly related to changes in the temperature of the surrounding sea water. The country is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences relatively high levels of seismic activity. Volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis may occur. The tropical cyclone season from November to April also brings significant risks of high winds, heavy rain, floods, and landslides. Vanuatu’s transport, communications, and electricity infrastructures are subject to significant disruption due to extreme weather or large-scale seismic activity. The country was hit by Category 5 Cyclone Pam in March 2015, causing extensive damage to property and infrastructure.
Last updated: March 17, 2022
Health and Medical
Medical facilities in Vanuatu are limited but generally adequate for minor treatments. More serious medical cases may require airlift to countries with more advanced medical facilities, usually Australia or New Zealand. Some medicines may be in short supply or unavailable, especially in remote areas with limited access to pharmacies.
Malaria infection is common from December to May. The country also experiences periodic outbreaks of dengue fever during the rainy season, including in the capital.
Last updated: September 8, 2023
Political
Political divisions along Anglo-French lines and high turnover of prime ministers and ministers due to no-confidence votes undermine political stability. Vanuatu continues to be plagued by corruption due to lack of funding and lack of enforcement outside urban centers. Outside of Efate and Espiritu Santo, where resources are concentrated, Vanuatu’s police force is small and generally ineffective.
Last updated: September 7, 2023
