India Joins China, Denmark, Qatar, Belgium, Indonesia, Bolivia And More As Canada Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Escalating Regional Instability And Increased Security Risks For Global Travelers

Published on December 10, 2025

A new travel advisory has been issued by Canada for a number of nations, including China, India, Denmark, Qatar, Belgium, Indonesia, Bolivia, and others, due to increased security risks and growing regional instability. This advisory alerts tourists to the growing risks of political unrest, terrorism, and civil unrest that are affecting both well-known and lesser-known travel destinations across the globe. Due to the increasing unpredictability of the situation in these areas, travelers must be extremely cautious, avoid unnecessary travel in some places, and keep up with developments. The advisory is a vital reminder of the changing risks and the necessity of exercising caution when traveling overseas, given the growing security concerns.

Canada‘s Global Affairs has issued updated travel advisories for a number of countries across the world, advising travelers to exercise varying degrees of caution. The advisories come in response to growing regional instability, heightened security threats, and political disruptions that may affect the safety of international travelers. Among the countries affected are India, China, Denmark, Qatar, Belgium, Indonesia, Bolivia, and several others. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the advisory details for each country, explaining the specific risks and how travelers can stay safe.

India: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

India, with its vast and diverse landscape, has been placed under the “Exercise a high degree of caution” advisory due to regional risks. While the country remains a major travel destination, travelers are advised to be cautious, especially in certain regions where political instability and security concerns are higher.

Regional Risks

• Northeastern India: Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the states of Assam and Manipur, which face ongoing insurgency and terrorism risks. Several extremist groups operate in these regions, often targeting local government forces.
• Jammu and Kashmir: The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir remains a high-risk area, with unpredictable security situations, including the threat of terrorism, militancy, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Travel to this region is highly discouraged.
• Border Areas with Pakistan: The border regions in Gujarat, Punjab, and Rajasthan, especially those within 10 km of the Pakistan border, are deemed risky due to the presence of landmines and sporadic cross-border skirmishes. The Attari-Wagah border crossing is currently closed.

General Safety

• Travelers should avoid public gatherings and protests.
• Increased military presence and potential curfews can lead to sudden restrictions, so it’s important to follow local authority instructions and stay informed.

China: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

China, one of the world’s largest countries, has a unique set of security concerns, particularly in certain regions where political sensitivities and human rights issues prevail.

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region

This region has faced widespread international attention due to the detention of ethnic minorities, including Uighur Muslims, and reports of forced labor camps. The Chinese government has implemented invasive security measures here, and travelers with ethnic ties to the region or family members of Chinese citizens may face arbitrary detention.

Tibet and Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures

Travelers to Tibet and certain Tibetan autonomous areas need permits. These regions are subject to strict control, and unauthorized travel could result in fines or detainment. The Chinese authorities have been known to suspend permits with little notice, so visitors should consult local agencies before traveling.

Crime and Fraud

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and mobile theft, occur in major cities. Travelers should take extra care in crowded areas, such as tourist spots and public transport. Additionally, credit card and ATM fraud are common, so it’s essential to stay alert when handling cards.

Denmark: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Denmark, typically known for its safety and quality of life, faces specific security challenges that require vigilance from international travelers.

Crime

While violent crime remains rare, petty crime, particularly pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in large cities like Copenhagen. Criminals often target tourist hotspots and public transportation systems, so travelers should keep their belongings secure.

Gang Violence

There have been occasional outbreaks of gang violence in neighborhoods such as Christiania and Nørrebro in Copenhagen. Visitors should avoid areas known for gang activity and stay aware of their surroundings, particularly at night.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe, including Denmark. Public places, including tourist attractions, transportation hubs, and places of worship, are potential targets. Visitors should be particularly cautious during public events, religious holidays, or large gatherings.

Qatar: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Qatar, located in the Arabian Peninsula, has been placed under an advisory due to the heightened geopolitical risks in the region. Tensions in the Gulf region can escalate quickly, affecting travelers’ safety.

Regional Tensions

Qatar is in proximity to several conflict zones in the Middle East. Travelers should monitor the situation carefully as regional conflicts can lead to sudden travel disruptions, including airspace closures and flight cancellations.

Terrorism

Terrorism remains a concern in the Arabian Peninsula, and while the risk to travelers is relatively low, visitors are advised to stay vigilant in public spaces such as markets, restaurants, and transportation hubs.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Qatar has strict laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals, and those in the community may face discrimination or legal repercussions. It is crucial for LGBTQ+ travelers to be aware of local laws and exercise caution.

Belgium: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Belgium, a key European destination, faces a range of security risks that affect international tourists, from petty crime to heightened terrorist threats.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, luggage snatching, and purse snatching, is common in major cities like Brussels. Tourists should be particularly vigilant at public transport stations, airports, and busy tourist attractions like the Grand Place in Brussels.

Terrorism

Belgium remains on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, particularly in busy public places such as restaurants, bars, and transportation hubs. Visitors should stay alert, especially during large events or religious holidays.

Gang Violence

Organized crime, including gang-related violence, has affected certain areas of Belgium, particularly in port cities like Antwerp. While tourists are not typically targeted, the risk of being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time remains.

Indonesia: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Indonesia, a diverse archipelago, faces its own set of challenges, particularly in certain regions where political instability and terrorism are ongoing concerns.

Papua Region

Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Papua due to militant groups and the risk of kidnapping and violence. Tensions are high in the region, and foreigners have been targeted in the past.

Terrorism

Indonesia remains vulnerable to terrorism, with attacks often targeting military and government facilities, as well as tourist attractions. The risk of violence increases during public holidays or major events. Travelers should stay vigilant in public places, especially in urban centers like Jakarta and Bali.

Crime and Safety

Petty crime, such as theft and fraud, is common in tourist areas. Travelers should safeguard their belongings and avoid displaying valuables in public.

Bolivia: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Bolivia, a landlocked country in South America, faces political unrest and crime, particularly in certain regions, making it a destination requiring caution for travelers.

Political Unrest

Bolivia frequently experiences protests and demonstrations, which can escalate into violence. Roadblocks and transportation disruptions are common during these events, especially in the capital, La Paz. Travelers should stay updated on local news and avoid areas where protests are occurring.

Crime

Petty crime is widespread, particularly in major cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz. Tourists should avoid hailing taxis off the street and be cautious of scams. Violent crime, though rare, can occur in certain regions, particularly in border areas associated with drug trafficking.

Road Safety

Roadblocks and strikes frequently disrupt travel in Bolivia. If traveling by road, ensure you have sufficient provisions, including food and water, and check for any potential travel delays before heading to airports or bus stations.

Canada’s updated travel advisories highlight the growing risks faced by international travelers due to political instability, regional disruptions, and security threats. While each country continues to offer unique opportunities for exploration, travelers are urged to exercise heightened caution and stay informed about the latest developments in their destinations.

Canada has issued new travel advisories for nations like India, China, Denmark, Qatar, Belgium, Indonesia, and Bolivia in response to growing security threats and regional instability. These warnings draw attention to growing risks that have a substantial impact on traveler safety in these areas, including terrorism, political unrest, and civil unrest.

By understanding the risks associated with each country, travelers can make more informed decisions, follow local guidelines, and ensure their safety while exploring these regions. Always check for the latest travel advisories and follow local authority instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.