Bosnia and Herzegovina

Risks: Crime and the risk of unmarked landmines and unexploded ordnance in rural and isolated mountainous areas.

Reasons: Unmarked landmines and unexploded ordnance, left from the Bosnian War, which took place from 1992 until 1995, continue to pose a risk, particularly in isolated mountainous areas and in the countryside.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in large urban centres such as Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Tuzla and Mostar.

Also, there is no resident Canadian government office in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Embassy of Canada to Hungary, in Budapest, is responsible for providing consular services in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Belgium

Risks: Threat of terrorism and drug violence.

Reasons: There has been an increase in violence, including stabbings and shootings, linked to the drug trade in Brussels and other major cities. In February 2024, shootings occurred in Brussels.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

In Belgium, separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place. Further attacks in Belgium cannot be ruled out. Further attacks elsewhere in Europe are also likely.

Denmark

Risks: Threat of terrorism and gang violence.

Reasons: Since the beginning of August 2023, there have been multiple incidents of public desecration of the Qur’an in Denmark. Violent extremists have since called for revenge against Denmark. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service currently assesses the threat of a terrorist attack at level 4 (significant) on a five-step scale.

On Aug. 26, 2023, a fatal shooting linked to gang violence and the drug trade occurred in Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen. This was the fourth fatal shooting connected to the drug trade since 2020. Residents have declared an end to the previously tolerated drug trade in the area.

France

Risks: Elevated threat of terrorism.

Reasons: On March 24, 2024, the Prime Minister of France raised the security threat to the highest level in the Vigipirate plan, a set of measures to prepare and protect the population and public places. The decision was made following a terrorist attack in Moscow claimed by the Islamic State.

The Olympic Games are in Paris from July 26 to Aug. 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024. During the Olympic Games, especially in Paris, you should expect an increased presence of security forces, major disruptions to traffic and movement, and large crowds and public gatherings.

Also, the Commemorative Ceremony for the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings will be held in France on June 6. If you are in Normandy or plan to travel there during the 80th anniversary, exercise caution, avoid unauthorized demonstrations and large gatherings, monitor local media to stay informed of the situation, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Lead photo of Malmö, Sweden: Shvets Anna