Azerbaijan Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan recorded 2.2 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is low by global standards. That places Azerbaijan #112 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Asia average of 2.0 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have remained broadly stable over the past decade. For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Azerbaijan at Level 3 of 4: Reconsider Travel.
Homicide Rate
2.2 /100k
Safety Rank
#84 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 3 of 4
Data Year
2023
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2023)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have remained broadly stable over the past decade. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Azerbaijan Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Azerbaijan, the homicide rate for men is 2.1× higher than the rate for women — 3.0 vs 1.4 per 100,000 (2023).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Armed Conflict Context
Azerbaijan has recorded battle-related deaths in recent years. Conflict deaths are counted separately from homicides — a country can have a moderate crime rate but significant conflict risk, and travel advisories weigh both.
Battle-Related Deaths
442(2023)
Military Spending
5.0% GDP(2024)
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Azerbaijan:
There was no change to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary and areas of increased risk were updated. Reconsider Travel to Azerbaijan due to terrorism, armed conflict, and risk of landmines. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do not travel to: The southern border region due to risk of armed conflict (unless this is your best overland exit from Iran) . The border with Armenia due to risk of landmines.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Azerbaijan
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated June 04, 2025).
Human Rights Concerns
Be aware of ongoing human rights concerns in Azerbaijan, including reports of arbitrary arrests, restrictions on freedom of expression, and mistreatment of detainees. Journalists and activists may face harassment and imprisonment. Stay informed about local laws and respect local customs to avoid any legal issues. For more detailed information, please refer to the U.S. State Department's Travel Advisory for Azerbaijan.
Terrorism
Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack U.S. citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets. High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) For more information, see our Terrorism page. The former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories and Armenia Border Areas: The U.S. Government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S.
Crime
Crime is relatively low and violent crime is infrequent. Most reported crimes involve burglary, assault, or petty crime such as pickpocketing. Some women have reported incidents of unwanted male attention while walking alone and taking taxis. Sexual assault may be underreported due to cultural stigma.
International Financial Scams
Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Azerbaijan. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. There are reports of scams related to fraudulent real estate deals, licensing requirements, and travel advertisements. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Demonstrations
are rare but may be suppressed with force when they occur. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events. Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.
Victims of Crime
Report crimes to the local police at 102 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +994-12-488-3300. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care. Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. Provide a list of local attorneys . We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. Provide our information on victim's compensation programs in the U.S. Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home. Replace a stolen or lost passport.
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Local resources for victims of domestic violence include shelters, medical assistance, and legal aid. Victims of domestic violence may dial 860 (or 012-860 outside of Baku) or email office@scfwca.gov.az to reach the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs hotline.
Tourism
The tourism industry is not well regulated. Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. Dangerous areas/activities are not always labeled properly. Staff may not be trained or certified by the host government or recognized authorities. If you get injured, you will likely only find appropriate medical treatment in or near Baku. First responders cannot reach areas outside major cities to provide urgent medical care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Review our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Azerbaijan Population & Demographics
Population of 10,202,830, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Azerbaijan safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Azerbaijan at Level 3 of 4 (Reconsider Travel). The homicide rate of 2.2 per 100,000 is low by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Azerbaijan?
Azerbaijan has an intentional homicide rate of 2.2 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #112 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Azerbaijan?
Azerbaijan is currently at Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Azerbaijan compare to other countries?
Azerbaijan's homicide rate of 2.2 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and above the Asia average of 2.0.