Grenada government responds to latest US travel advisory

Grenada, on Wednesday, sought to reassure international partners, travellers, and the global community that the Caribbean island is a safe, secure, and desired destination for residents and visitors alike.

The Dickon Mitchell government was responding to the latest travel advisory issued by the United States increasing to Level 2 and urging potential travellers to use increased caution due to the risk of crime.

“Violent crime can occur anywhere in Grenada. American citizens in Grenada have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary, and rape. In some cases, American citizens have been killed. Police response times are not as fast as one may expect in the United States,” the US Department of State said in its advisory on Tuesday.

But the Grenada government said that the Caribbean Community (Caricom) country continues to enjoy “a strong record of public safety, social stability, and effective law enforcement.”

“Grenada has long been home to a significant and vibrant population of United States citizens, many of whom live, work, study, and invest in our tri-island state. These individuals are valued members of our communities and benefit from the same security protections and public services as all nationals and residents,” the government said in a statement. “Their presence is a testament to the confidence placed in Grenada’s quality of life, safety, and governance and historical people-to-people ties with the United States. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Grenada annually, enjoying our renowned hospitality, rich culture, and world-class tourism offerings.”

The government said Grenada consistently ranks among the safest countries in the region, with an exceptionally low crime rate, approximately 4 incidents per 100,000 people. “This reflects the nation’s strong commitment to public safety, proactive policing, and community engagement. Visitors and residents alike enjoy a secure environment that supports Grenada’s reputation as a peaceful and welcoming destination.”

The government said furthermore, the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) maintains “robust systems for rapid response to any concerns and demonstrates strong crime solvency and institutional capacity to ensure continued public safety.”

“These capabilities underscore Grenada’s readiness and ability to safeguard the interests of all who call our nation home or choose to visit,” the government said, reiterating that it treats “the safety and security of all who live in or visit our shores as a national priority.”

“Through close collaboration among law enforcement agencies, ongoing investment in public safety infrastructure, and strong regional and international partnerships.”

The government said that Grenada continues to proactively address security concerns and uphold the highest standards of protection for nationals and visitors alike. “Our National Security authorities maintain open lines of communication and continued security cooperation with international partners, including the United States.”

The Mitchell government said that as a premier tourism destination, Grenada remains fully committed to providing a secure, enjoyable, and enriching experience for travellers. “Our tourism sector operates under robust safety protocols, and our communities are known for their warmth, friendliness, and respect for visitors. These qualities have earned Grenada its reputation as a destination where travellers feel safe, welcomed and genuinely at home. Grenada remains open, safe, and ready to welcome the world”.

The US Level 2 rating for Grenada is viewed as being “relatively low” as the State Department’s advisories range from Level 1, for those with low risks of various factors like crime or unrest, to Level 4, which is given to countries the department advises Americans not to travel to under any circumstances.

The department’s travel advisories for the Caribbean vary, with some, like Barbados and Dominica, listed as Level 1 countries, while the Bahamas is listed as a Level 2 country.

CMC