The United Kingdom and the United States have issued renewed travel advisories for Bangladesh, citing security risks linked to political instability, terrorism, crime and the upcoming national election.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has urged British nationals to avoid all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts, particularly the three districts of Rangamati, Khagrachhari and Bandarban. The advisory comes in view of the country’s evolving security situation and the national election scheduled for 12 February.
According to the FCDO, remote areas of the hill districts have seen regular reports of violence and criminal activity. The office also warned that terrorists may attempt indiscriminate attacks, including in places frequented by foreigners such as government and private buildings, restaurants, cafés, public transport systems, crowded areas, religious sites and political gatherings.
The UK advisory referred to the widespread violence during anti-government unrest in July–August 2024, when many people were killed and injured across the country. It noted that although elections are approaching, Bangladesh’s overall situation remains volatile, with frequent political rallies and protests that could quickly turn violent.
British citizens were advised to remain alert to the rapidly changing situation, avoid political gatherings, protests and large crowds, and move to a safe place immediately if unrest breaks out. The FCDO also urged travelers to follow instructions from local authorities, monitor local media and sign up for email notifications for updated travel advice.
Meanwhile, the US State Department has updated its travel advisory for Bangladesh without changing its overall alert level. It has reiterated a call for US citizens to reconsider travel due to risks of kidnapping, civil unrest, crime and terrorism.
The advisory warned that demonstrations can escalate into violence without notice and urged Americans to avoid all political gatherings. It listed mugging, theft, assault and illegal drug trade as common crimes in major cities, and cautioned about pickpocketing in crowded areas, although it said there is no evidence that foreigners are being specifically targeted.
On terrorism, the US advisory stated that Bangladesh remains at risk of militant attacks. It also highlighted serious security threats, including kidnapping, in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and maintained a complete travel ban for US government personnel to Rangamati, Khagrachhari and Bandarban.
The State Department further noted that US government employees in Bangladesh are restricted from non-essential travel outside diplomatic areas and that Washington’s ability to provide emergency services outside Dhaka is limited.
Travelers were advised to avoid protests and political rallies, monitor local news, maintain a personal emergency exit plan, report crimes to local authorities from a safe location, purchase travel insurance, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates and assistance.
