Europe

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.  For more general information see terrorism abroad.

 

Crime

Crime, especially violent crime, remains relatively low in Armenia.  But there are incidents of pickpocketing, bag snatching, theft from cars and burglary involving British or other foreign nationals. You should not carry your passport, credit card, travel tickets and money together.  We advise you to leave spare cash, passports and valuables in a safe place. 

There have been occasional shooting incidents, chiefly related to organised crime.  Although tourists and foreigners were not targeted, there is a risk of being caught up in such events and you should remain vigilant at all times.

We also advise that you take the same personal safety precautions on the street and when using ATMs as you would in the UK.  Take particular care if using them after dark, especially if you are alone.  Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.

 

Fore more general information see victims of crime abroad.

  

Political Situation

Armenia country profile

 
Presidential elections in February 2008 were followed by street protests ending in violence between demonstrators and security forces on 1 March 2008, leaving ten dead. This was followed by a State of Emergency.

Although the situation now is much calmer there is an ongoing risk of political demonstrations in central Yerevan and in other cities and towns around the country. We advise British citizens to avoid the area of known demonstrations and large gatherings of people.  If it is necessary to be in the vicinity of a demonstration or gatherings, we urge you to exercise vigilance and caution at all times. Demonstrations or gatherings can attract large numbers, and even if intended to be peaceful could turn confrontational.

The dispute over Nagorno Karabakh remains unresolved. The British Embassy cannot provide consular assistance to you if you are in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Although a ceasefire has been in place since May 1994, the borders between Azerbaijan and both Armenia and Armenian occupied territory remain closed. There are no peacekeeping forces separating the two sides. There are regular exchanges of sniper fire, some skirmishes, and the border areas contain mines and unexploded ordnance. Any foreigners venturing within five kilometres of these borders are liable to be stopped by the police or the military. 

Local travel

We advise against all but essential travel close to the border with Azerbaijan, particularly the border areas of Tavush and Gegharkunic regions, where there have been reports of sporadic gunfire. We specifically advise against all travel on the road from Ijevan to Noyemberyan, which passes close to the border and military emplacements, where there have also been some reports of sporadic gunfire. If travelling between Armenia and Georgia we advise you to use one of the routes further west, or through the Lori region.

 

The land border with Turkey is also closed, but there are now direct flights from Yerevan to Istanbul. Travelling within the South Caucasus can be difficult and needs careful planning.

 

Road travel

You are permitted to drive in Armenia on an International driving licence. The local standard of driving is poor. If you plan to drive in Armenia, you should be prepared for drivers who drive recklessly and flout traffic laws.   The roads are also in a poor state, particularly in the coldest months (November to February).   If you are walking, you should be careful when crossing roads and use subways where available.

 

For more general information see driving abroad.

Rail travel

Public transport is often overcrowded and poorly maintained. If you have to travel by train, secure your valuables, do not leave the compartment unattended, and lock the door from the inside.

 
If your are travelling by rail from Tbilisi you should ensure that you have a valid visa for Armenia before you board the train.

 

Air travel

Evidence suggests that some airlines serving Armenia do not always comply with international safety standards in respect of maintenance procedures.  Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) staff have therefore been advised to avoid flying with non-scheduled or non-international airlines from Armenia if an acceptable alternative means of travel exists.