Paraguay

Introduction to Paraguay

The Republic of Paraguay is a landlocked nation in South America. It lies on both banks of the Paraguay River, bordering Argentina to the south and southwest, Brazil to the northeast, and Bolivia to the northwest. The name of the country means "water that goes to the ocean," derived from the Guarani words pará ("ocean"), gua ("to/from"), and y ("water"). The expression in Guarani often refers solely to Asunción, but in Spanish refers to the entire country.

In the disastrous War of the Triple Alliance (1865–1870), Paraguay lost two-thirds of its adult male population and 140,000 km² of its territory. It stagnated economically for the next half century. In the Chaco War of 1932 to 1935, invading Bolivian troops, trying to gain a port on the Paraguay river for their landlocked country, were expelled by the Paraguayan Armed Forces from most of the Chaco region. The Chaco had been claimed by both countries, but the settlements in the region were mostly Paraguayan. The 35-year military dictatorship of Alfredo Stroessner was overthrown in 1989, and, despite a marked increase in political infighting in recent years, relatively free and regular presidential elections have been held since then. However, the democracy that exists in the country, while a great improvement on the 'stronato' is very limited. It is hampered by the widespread corruption and lack of any democratic political culture.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Paraguay

The level of crime in Paraguay remains low by South American standards however, violent crime is increasing. You should be on your guard and exercise caution at all times, particularly in cities at night.

Canadians should exercise caution when travelling to the Departments of San Pedro, Canindeyú and Amambay. There have been carjackings by armed bandits along secluded parts of the road, from the junction at Mbutuy in Caaguazú Department east, across San Pedro Department and through Canindeyú Department to Salto del Guaira at the Brazilian border.

Ongoing economic recession has resulted in political instability and declining security. Armed robbery, car theft, and burglary occur. Street and other petty crimes are prevalent in cities. Exercise caution on public transportation. In Asunción, be cautious in public markets, particularly the Mercado Cuatro and, at night, in the neighbourhoods of the Chacarita, Ñemby, and Tacumbú. Do not show signs of affluence. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times. If attacked, do not resist. Checked luggage has been pilfered at airports.