Safety In Azerbaijan: Is It A Secure Work Environment?

Azerbaijan is an emerging tourist destination, with its unique architecture, ancient rock paintings, and hiking trails. However, it is important to consider safety when planning a trip to this country. While the country is generally safe, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, there is a high threat of terrorism, and visitors are advised to avoid large public gatherings and exercise caution in places frequented by foreigners. Secondly, visitors should be aware of the risk of petty theft and pickpocketing, particularly in busy markets and on public transportation. Thirdly, drink spiking and scams targeting foreigners in bars and nightclubs have been reported, so it is important to be vigilant when socializing. Additionally, it is important to respect local laws and cultural sensitivities, especially when it comes to religion and photography of military sites. Overall, with proper precautions and awareness of potential risks, Azerbaijan can be a safe and enjoyable place to visit.

Crime and scams

Crime is relatively low in Azerbaijan, but it is still important to remain vigilant. Most reported crimes involve burglary, assault, or petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Violent crime is rare, but foreigners have reported serious crimes, including home burglaries, robbery, and assault.

Be aware of thieves posing as police officers and demanding that tourists pay on-the-spot fines. If this happens, offer to follow the officer to the nearest police station to pay the fine.

Take extra care to guard against card skimming when paying with a credit card or withdrawing money from ATMs. Use ATMs inside banks if possible, and check ATMs on the street for signs of tampering. Keep your cards in sight when paying in shops and restaurants.

There have been incidents of drink spiking, resulting in victims being robbed. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Scams targeting men at bars have been reported. These occur when a woman asks a foreign man to buy her drinks, then leaves him with a very high bar tab. If he is unable to pay, a group of men might use physical force to insist.

There is also a risk of cyber-based threats, such as digital identity theft. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using shared or public computers, or Bluetooth.

Border tensions

There are regular tensions in areas along the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The security environment remains highly volatile, with numerous armed clashes since 2020. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the Canadian and Australian governments advise against all travel to within 5km of the border with Armenia, due to the risk of armed conflict. The Canadian advisory excludes the area within 1km of the border between Armenia and the Azerbaijani Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, where non-essential travel is advised against.

The FCDO advises against all travel to the districts of Zengilan, Jabrayil, Qubadli, Lachin and Kelbajar on the Azerbaijan-Armenia border, as well as the western areas of the rayons of Khojavand, Fuzuli and Aghdam. The Australian government also advises against travel to Armenia-Azerbaijan border areas and Nagorno-Karabakh. This is due to the risk of armed clashes and the presence of unmarked landmines in the region.

Sporadic armed clashes still take place between Armenia and Azerbaijan, particularly in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which is a disputed area where armed conflict is common. There is an ongoing, bitter conflict between the two nations, and Azerbaijanis can get angry if you mention Armenia. If you are of Armenian descent, this might cause problems for you in Azerbaijan, so it is advised to avoid the topic.

Medical facilities

If you are travelling with prescription medication, check with the Azerbaijani embassy to ensure that your medication is legal in Azerbaijan. Carry a copy of your doctor's prescription and keep the medication in its original packaging.

It is recommended to avoid older medical clinics, which often lack basic drugs and equipment and have poor hygiene standards. Some medical clinics require upfront payment in cash for treatment.

Medical evacuation to Turkey or Western Europe may be necessary in the event of a serious illness or injury, so ensure your travel insurance covers this.

LGBTQ+ safety

While same-sex relations are legal in Azerbaijan, LGBTQ+ people may face discrimination, intolerance, or violence. As such, LGBTQ+ individuals in Azerbaijan tend to keep a low profile and avoid public displays of affection, especially outside of Baku and among the older generation.

Homosexuality is not widely accepted in Azerbaijani society, and LGBTQ+ travellers may face additional challenges and risks. Showing affection in public is generally frowned upon and could attract unwanted attention or negative reactions. It is advisable for LGBTQ+ individuals to be cautious and discreet when travelling in Azerbaijan to ensure their safety and avoid potential harassment or discrimination.

In addition to the above, here are some general safety tips for Azerbaijan:

• Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places such as markets and on public transportation.
• Look out for drink-related scams and never leave food or drinks unattended.
• Avoid the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and the Nagorno-Karabakh region due to ongoing conflicts and the presence of landmines.
• Be careful when driving or travelling on the roads, as many roads are in poor condition, and drivers often speed and ignore traffic rules.
• Refuse to pay bribes if confronted with corruption.
• Be cautious of fake police officers and always ask to be taken to a police station if you are in doubt.
• Dress modestly and conservatively, especially in rural areas, to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
• Always buy travel insurance before travelling to Azerbaijan to ensure you are covered in case of any emergencies or accidents.

Driving

If you are planning to drive in Azerbaijan, there are a number of things you should be aware of. Firstly, it is illegal to drive right-hand-drive cars in Azerbaijan, so make sure you have a left-hand-drive vehicle. Secondly, you will need to have both the 1968 version of the International Driving Permit (IDP) and your driving licence with you in the car. If you are staying in the country for more than a month, you will also need an Azerbaijani driving licence, which can be obtained through the ASAN Service Offices.

If you are driving at night, be especially cautious as many roads are poorly lit or not lit at all, and there may be potholes and bumps that can cause accidents. It is also important to note that drink-driving is illegal in Azerbaijan, with a zero-tolerance policy in place. If you are found to have any alcohol in your system, you may face severe fines or even a prison sentence.

When it comes to insurance, make sure you have a green card as proof of insurance and check with your insurer that you are covered to drive in Azerbaijan. It is also highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays, as medical facilities outside of major cities may be limited.

In addition to the driving risks, there are a few other things to keep in mind when travelling in Azerbaijan. Firstly, traffic stops are common, so always carry your licence, IDP, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration with you. Secondly, be aware of potential scams, such as criminals dressed as police officers issuing fake traffic infringements or demanding bribes. If you encounter such a situation, ask to be taken to a police station. Finally, if you are renting a car, use a reputable company and carefully inspect the vehicle before driving to ensure it is in good condition.

Frequently asked questions