032318 – Protests and Demonstrations Advisory

Public protests and demonstrations are common, but even a peaceful protest or demonstration can become violent without warning.  The Protests and Demonstrations post gives you safety and security recommendations to help you mitigate risk before and during a demonstration abroad.

In general: Don’t participate in demonstrations, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for the latest information, and confirm your transportation plans.

Below you will find recent reports of public protests and demonstrations in various countries.

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – UN.  UN report finds 47 protestors killed, freedom of assembly curtailed by use of force.  The security services and defence forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) killed at least 47 people during anti-government protests over a 13-month period through 31 January 2018, a United Nations human rights report has found.
• France – GOV.UK. Nationwide strikes are planned for 22 March; disruptions to air, rail, public service and public transport services.
• Lebanon – GOV.UK. due to a potential risk of violence and protests you should exercise vigilance in the run up to elections on 6 May 2018.
• Panama – GOV.UK. on 13 March a protest in Colon turned violent resulting in blocked streets, disruption to railways and looting north of Calle 16.
• Sierra Leone – Government of Canada. The second round of presidential elections is due to take place on March 27, 2018. Demonstrations and political rallies are planned between now and elections day.
• Slovakia – GOV.UK.  there have been protests, which so far have been peaceful, across Slovakia following the murder of an investigative journalist.
• Sri Lanka – Government of Canada. Inter-communal and religious tensions remain throughout the country and have led to violence. Further violent incidents could occur.
• Timor-Leste – GOV.UK. parliamentary elections are to be held in East Timor on 12 May 2018; localised violence associated with campaign rallies has occurred in Dili; further violence is possible.

The risk information in this report is retrieved from U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and other professional sources as listed in the post. It provides general guidance for UT Dallas travelers. Please note the revision date (mmddyy) of this report, printed on the title of the post, and go to the direct sources listed for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.