Solomon Islands Country Report
The Solomon Islands have a parliamentary democratic government and are part of the British Commonwealth of Nations. The country suffered from outbreaks of ethnic violence between 1998 and 2003, which damaged much of its infrastructure. Although the deployment of regional peacekeeping forces has stabilized the situation, ethnic tensions persist and the risk of civil unrest remains.
Although the crime rate has decreased in recent years, the level of criminal activity in some areas remains high. Petty crimes are a common occurrence, but violent crimes against foreign tourists are not uncommon. Firearms are everywhere, making armed robbery dangerous for tourists and locals alike. While the suburbs of Guadalcanal and the northern half of Malaita are crime hotspots, vehicle theft and robbery are common in Honiara. The road leading to the airport in Lunga Bridge has been targeted by illegal bunkers and people who tried to cross it have been robbed.
Cyclones affect the country from November to May, and subsequent severe weather can disrupt travel and service delivery. Heavy rains can also cause landslides and floods.
Last updated: April 12, 2022
Security
Crime remains a serious problem in many parts of the Solomon Islands. Opportunistic crime is common in urban centers, especially Honiara, and police response capacity is generally limited. In recent years, the occurrence of violent crimes has also increased. Rural areas of Guadalcanal and the northern half of Malaita remain areas of concern for criminal activity. Protests are relatively frequent in urban centers. Rallies are generally peaceful, but sometimes turn violent and lead to arrests.
Last updated: May 13, 2022
Infrastructure
Domestic flights can be fickle, but there’s nothing to worry about when it comes to air travel.
The only paved roads are around Honiara. Most of the other roads are in poor condition and have big potholes.
Ports are considered efficient.
Public service delivery is generally poor, although communication infrastructure is improving.
As communication infrastructure improves, the risk of cybercrime is increasing.
Last updated: December 29, 2022
Environment
The climate throughout the island is usually hot and humid. Swimming can be dangerous, especially in the South Tarawa lagoon, where some of the waters are very polluted and in some areas are inhabited by sharks and rock crocodiles. The Solomon Islands are located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making them highly prone to earthquakes and related tsunamis. The country also has several active volcanoes that can pose a significant hazard and are prone to typhoons during the hurricane season from November to April.
Last updated: March 16, 2022
Health and Medical
There is malaria. There have also been reports of dengue fever and another mosquito-borne disease, Ross River fever. Medical care is very limited. There are no pharmacies outside the major population centers. Tap water is not safe to drink.
Last updated: September 8, 2023
Political
Corruption is generally considered to be pervasive in most institutions in the Solomon Islands, and despite continued efforts at good governance, it is almost certain to remain a problem in business transactions. The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force continues to have limited resources and training, which may lead to delays in responding to incidents. Political stability in the islands has increased since 2003, but concerns remain about possible electoral instability and the government continues to face frequent internal challenges.
Last updated: March 28, 2022
