South America and South Atlantic Islands

Terrorism

 

 

Crime

Instances of serious violent crime, including kidnapping, have decreased lately. However, weapons can easily be obtained in Paraguay and are routinely carried. Although foreigners are not specifically targeted, you are advised to remain alert at all times. 

You are advised to take sensible precautions – avoid wearing expensive jewellery, carrying large amounts of cash or carrying handbags.  Essential items, such as mobile phones or wallets should be kept out of sight when out walking or using public transport.  Armed assaults and pickpocketing on public transport and in areas frequented by foreigners are increasing. Many foreigners choose to use taxis in preference to public transport for security and convenience.You are advised to take sensible precautions – avoid wearing expensive jewellery, carrying large amounts of cash or carrying handbags.  Essential items, such as mobile phones or wallets, should be kept out of sight when out walking or using public transport.  Armed assaults and pickpocketing on public transport and in areas frequented by foreigners are increasing.  Many foreigners choose to use taxis in preference to public transport for security and convenience.  You should be particularly alert in downtown Asunción, Ciudad del Este and Pedro Juan Caballero, where it is not advisable to be on foot after dark, due to increasing crime.  You should also avoid walking near the Presidential Palace and Congress in Asuncíon at night, as both are near a slum where there have been cases of armed assault on foreigners.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

 

Political Situation

 

Paraguay Country Profile

 
The Paraguay President is Fernando Lugo who assumed office on 15 August 2008, overturning 60 years of rule by the same political party.   Lugo´s government has publicly stated its intention to address endemic corruption in government and to undertake a series of land reforms. It also intends to continue the ambitious business sector reform programme started by the previous government. This aims to provide a long term framework for investment. It includes a focus on increasing production of key commodities such as beef and cereals and maintaining a favourable exchange rate. This approach, coupled with a country risk rating of B+, is making Paraguay attractive to foreign investment.

A recent increase in attempted invasions of private agricultural land by “landless peasants” following Lugo´s election as President has led to greater police activity especially in San Pedro and Concepcion Departments.  You should exercise caution, particularly in these areas, and avoid any protests and demonstrations.

Local Travel

There are increased military and police checks nationwide, usually to check documents and perform breathalyser tests.  These are particularly frequent in the San Pedro and Concepcion Departments because of the police activity mentioned above. Travel to these areas should not be undertaken lightly.  

Care should be taken when travelling in the north-eastern provinces of Amambay and Canindeyu where illegal cross-border activities are common and often violent.
 
There are no rail services and no regular passenger services on the Parana River.  The most reliable form of travel within Paraguay is by long distance bus services
 

Road Travel

 

Paraguay's network of surfaced main roads is limited and of variable condition.  There is an ongoing programme to upgrade the major routes but minor roads remain unsurfaced and often become impassable during heavy rains.  Large potholes are an additional hazard, particularly in Asunción.  You should exercise extreme caution when driving on country roads at night as unlit vehicles and cattle sleeping on the roads are common.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.