Afghanistan Health and Safety

Some analysts conclude that capability and sophistication of the insurgents is at its highest point since 2001. Although independent travellers and NGO workers have been targeted by these groups on an extremely limited scale, it is clear that their primary target for the time being remains the Afghan Government, NATO-led ISAF and Coalition forces.

With its war-torn past Afghanistan is highly contaminated with land mines and unexploded ordnance (UXOs). UXOs are as lethal as land mines and can be found anywhere, from backyards to the desert. Stay away from unused roads and paths, wells, the banks of irrigation canals and culverts, military bases, battlefields and destroyed houses.

With the majority of Afghans living in extreme poverty the security situation further impedes their ability to earn a basic living. Hundreds of what are now called 'illegally armed groups' operate freely across the country, with arsenals of light and heavy weapons; highway banditry, car jacking and protection rackets are rife.

Kidnapping remains a threat for internationals in Afghanistan and is perpetrated by criminals for ransom and by insurgents as part of their operations. Criminal groups have been known to sell hostages to the highest bidder, which is usually insurgents. Any kidnapping will be preceded by reconnaissance and planning so it is essential that you do not set patterns of movement and timings.

Opium is Afghanistan's largest export and unfortunately, due to a lack of natural resources, the country's economy is reliant on its production. Expensive attempts at eradicating the crop have been made - all with little impact. It is clear that on the opium issue, the insurgency, warlords and some government officials are happy to cooperate in the name of mutual gain.