Mauritius has a long tradition of political and social stability.  Civil unrest and political violence are uncommon.  Free and fair national elections are held every five years, with the last general elections held in November 2019.  The most recent elections took place without incident.  The current prime minister, Pravind Jugnauth, was appointed in 2017, after his father resigned for health reasons.  Jugnauth’s political alliance won the reelection during the 2019 elections with a consortium of other political parties, and he became the country’s prime minister.  In August 2020 and February 2021, civilians engaged in mass protests in response to allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the government. The protests were orderly and without incident.  In April 2022, civilians participated in anti-government and anti-police demonstrations in various neighborhoods around the island due to price-hikes to gasoline and cooking gas.  Sixteen police officers and two civilians were injured during the protests.  

Crime rates are low but petty and violent crime can occur.  Visitors should keep track of their belongings at all times due to the potential for pickpocketing and purse-snatching, especially in crowded and tourist areas.  Visitors should also avoid walking alone, particularly on isolated beaches and at night, and should avoid demonstrations.

For background information on the political and economic environment of the country, please click on the link to the U.S. Department of State Countries & Areas website.