Paraguay Country Report
One of two landlocked countries in South America, Paraguay has long been known for its relative poverty due to years of weak governance and economic mismanagement. Paraguay’s main challenges are both diversifying its economy away from soy-based exports and reducing wealth inequality, he continued. Consolidation of democracy also remains a challenge. Crime is a major concern for anyone visiting Paraguay, primarily in the Ciudad del Este region, but also in the capital, Asuncion. The lack of medical and other infrastructure will also be a problem for people outside the big cities. Paraguay is unique in Latin America as the only country in the region where the majority of its citizens speak an indigenous language. Although most people speak Guarani, Spanish is still widely spoken and is the main language of the capital. However, many Spanish speakers mix Guarani expressions into their speech, which can be problematic for Spanish-speaking foreigners who know no Guarani.
Last updated: July 5, 2022
Security
Paraguay generally has good diplomatic relations with other countries in the world. Crime in Paraguay is mainly property-based and opportunistic in nature, with Asuncion and the tri-border region being the most at risk. Domestic terrorism by left-wing guerrillas remains a threat in far-flung areas. There are also concerns about cross-border terrorist elements in the tri-border region. Demonstrations sometimes occur in the capital, but hotter events over the unequal distribution of land often occur in rural areas.
Last updated: May 9, 2022
Infrastructure
Air travel to and from Paraguay is considered safe.
Paraguay’s road network often varies depending on the economic development of each region, but highways are considered adequate in most cases. Availability of basic services such as water, electricity, and fuel is generally reliable in densely populated areas of Paraguay but is more unstable in rural areas.
The country is not known to be a sponsor of cyber-attacks, nor are there sophisticated defense structures to thwart them.
Last updated: May 9, 2022
Environment
Due to its relatively low altitude, Paraguay’s climate is generally subtropical or tropical, and the small latitude differences do not cause adverse weather problems. Although there are currently no major human-caused disasters, land clearing, and deforestation have raised concerns about soil quality and water use. Most of the country is located in or near seismic zones. However, earthquakes occur rarely, and when they do, they are usually moderate. As far as flood and wind damage is concerned, storm systems are a frequent problem in this country.
Last updated: March 16, 2022
Health and Medical
Although Paraguay has eradicated most major diseases from its soil, mosquito-borne diseases such as yellow fever are still a threat in certain areas. Almost all acceptable medical facilities are private and located in large cities such as Asuncion. People traveling to other countries will find it much more difficult to access care beyond their daily needs. In Paraguay, most essential medicines are available in some form, usually in urban areas. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise specified.
Last updated: September 7, 2022
Political
Corruption is considered very problematic in Paraguay. The rule of law is undermined by corruption and uneven enforcement. While Paraguay continues to strengthen its democracy, the country’s institutions remain relatively weak, but no major democratic collapse has occurred. Sanctions are not a concern.
Last updated: March 28, 2022
