010720 – World Status Report

When traveling on behalf of UT Dallas, set up your institutional safety net and prepare for an emergency as a standard step of all your travels.  Find more information in the Traveler Best Practices webpage.

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.

Avoid Nonessential Travel

Conflict and Terrorism

• Central African Republic * U.S. Department of State * Do not travel to Central African Republic (CAR) due to crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping.
• Mali * U.S. Department of State * Do not travel to Mali due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
• Iraq * GOV.AU * Do not travel to Iraq.  If it is safe to do so, you should leave Iraq as soon as possible. If you travel to or remain in Iraq despite this advice, check media for updates on new safety or security threats. On 3 January, a US airstrike near the Baghdad International Airport killed an Iranian senior commander and Iraqi paramilitary leaders. The security situation could worsen with little warning.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Middle East Region Advisory

• Afghanistan, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen * GOV.AU * The security situation in the Middle East region is unpredictable and likely to become volatile. Remain vigilant, and monitor developments via the media and travel advice. On 3 January, a US airstrike near the Baghdad International Airport killed an Iranian senior commander and Iraqi paramilitary leaders.
• Iran * GOV.AU * Reconsider your need to travel to Iran because the security situation remains extremely volatile and could change at any time. If you travel to Iran despite this advice, you should avoid rallies and marches taking place across Iran, which could turn violent, and closely monitor developments in the region. Iran has declared a three-day period of public mourning from 3-6 January following the death of Iranian Major-General Qassem Soleimani.
• Iraq * GOV.AU * Do not travel to Iraq.  If it is safe to do so, you should leave Iraq as soon as possible. If you travel to or remain in Iraq despite our advice, check media for updates on new safety or security threats. On 3 January, a US airstrike near the Baghdad International Airport killed an Iranian senior commander and Iraqi paramilitary leaders. The security situation could worsen with little warning.

Conflict and Terrorism

• Azerbaijan * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Azerbaijan due to the risk of terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
• Belgium * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Belgium due to terrorism. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Belgium. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting, music, and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.
• Belgium * GC.CA * The Government of Belgium maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media (including social media). Register with the Belgian Public Alert System (BE-Alert). Current terrorism threat levels – Belgian Crisis Centre (in French only). You can also follow the centre on twitter
• Burkina Faso * GOV.UK * Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Burkina Faso, including the capital Ouagadougou. There have been regular attacks on police, military personnel and civilians, particularly close to the borders with Mali, Niger and Cote d’Ivoire and in the Eastern Region. There remains a high threat of kidnap in Burkina Faso and the wider Sahel region.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo * U.S. Department of State * Reconsider travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to crime, civil unrest, and Ebola. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
• Indonesia * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Indonesia due to terrorism and natural disasters.  Some areas have increased risk.
• Indonesia * GOV.UK * Terrorist groups have the capacity and intent to carry out attacks at anytime and anywhere in the country. Types of attacks have included suicide bombings and small-arms fire, targeting public and crowded places.
• Iraq * U.S. Department of State * Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict.
• Libya* UN News * The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), on Sunday strongly condemned the bombing of a military academy in the capital Tripoli, which according to news reports left at least 30 dead and more than 30 others wounded.
• Libya * UN News * Shelling near a major facility run by the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) in the Libyan capital Tripoli on Thursday, has sparked deep concern for the safety of refugees and asylum seekers there.
• Mauritania * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Mauritania due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk.
• Montenegro * GOV.UK * In the early hours of 16 December 2019, an explosive device was detonated outside a bar in central Podgorica. No casualties were reported. The police investigation is ongoing. You should exercise caution, remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. In the event of any incidents, you should follow the advice of local authorities.
• Myanmar (Burma) * GOV.UK * On 19 December 2019 three small explosions took place on Manaung Island in Rakhine State, coinciding with a high level government visit to the area. There are no reports of casualties. If you’re travelling to Rakhine State you should remain vigilant throughout your visit. You should seek advice from guides or tour operators before travelling.
• Niger * U.S. Department of State * Reconsider travel to Niger due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
• Pakistan * GOV.UK * On 16 December 2019, a bomb exploded outside the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly and Peshawar High Court. The FCO continue to advise against all travel to the city of Peshawar.
• Sudan * UN News * Authorities in Sudan are being urged to restore peace and order in the wake of intercommunal clashes in West Darfur state which erupted on Sunday and left 65 people dead, 54 injured, and thousands displaced.
• Syria * UN News * Amidst concern for the safety and protection of more than three million civilians in Syria’s last rebel-held enclave, the UN’s most senior humanitarian and political affairs officials briefed the Security Council on Syria behind closed doors on Friday.

Crime

• Argentina * GOV.UK * On 14 December 2019 a British tourist was fatally shot and another seriously injured having been targeted by a gang on arrival at Ezeiza International Airport who followed them to their hotel in Puerto Madero.
• Kenya * GC.CA * Exercise caution if you are travelling to Kenya to meet someone with whom you have developed a relationship on the Internet (friendship, business or romance). Foreigners are often lured to Kenya, especially during the holiday season (Christmas and New Year), to meet their online contact in person. Once there, they become victims of crime. Some have lost thousands of dollars and some have been arrested for failing to pay debts accrued locally or exorbitant bills racked up as a result of scams.
• Mexico * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Mexico due to crime and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
• Nigeria * GOV.UK * Violent crime is common. There tends to be an increase in reported burglaries and robberies during the festive season.
• Sierra Leone * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Sierra Leone due to crime.
• South Africa * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to crime, civil unrest, and drought.

Demonstrations and Social Unrest

• Algeria * GC.CA * Presidential elections took place on December 12, 2019. Demonstrations could occur after the elections.
• Algeria * GOV.AU * There are frequent protests in Algeria that can become violent. Civil unrest is on the rise. Protests are illegal in Algiers. Avoid large public gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Belgium * GOV.UK * Since Thursday 5 December, Eurostar services have been affected by industrial action by railway workers in France. Cancellations are expected. You should check services before travelling.
• Bolivia * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Bolivia due to civil unrest.
• Cameroon * GOV.AU * Parliamentary elections are planned for 9 February 2020. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections. Protests can turn violent. Avoid large gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Chile * GC.CA * The situation is currently unpredictable and fluid in Chile. On October 18, 2019, a popular uprising started in reaction to economic measures imposed by the government. Demonstrations in Santiago and other cities across the country have developed into nationwide protests and civil unrest. Violent incidents have occurred, including arson, looting and clashes between protesters and security forces. They resulted in several casualties. Political demonstrations, civil unrest and outbreaks of violence may occur at any time. Roadblocks may be erected. The situation could significantly disrupt the following essential services: transportation, telecommunications, emergency services, medical care, banks, pharmacies. Be aware that Chilean law prohibits political activities by foreigners. Participating in demonstration or promoting dissent, including on social media, may result in being detained and/or deported.  Until the situation returns to normal: avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, including Plaza Italia in Santiago; exercise caution when visiting main squares; expect a heightened security presence; allow extra time to reach your destination; contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans; follow the instructions of local authorities; monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
• Chile * GOV.UK * Following civil unrest in October and November 2019 across Chile you may see a police presence in major cities. There is potential for further demonstrations with a risk of violence in Santiago, Valparaiso, Antofagasta, Concepcion and other major cities.
• Chile * GOV.AU * Following recent civil unrest and violence across Chile, there may be further demonstrations, protests and violent clashes in major cities, including Santiago de Chile, Valparaíso, Viña de Mar, Punto Arenas, Puerto Montt, Concepción and Antofagasta.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo * GOV.UK * Public gatherings and demonstrations can be called with little or no notice and can quickly turn violent in DRC. If a demonstration or disturbance takes place, leave quickly and don’t attempt to watch or photograph it. You should: follow local media for news of any planned protests;  avoid travelling around Kinshasa and other large cities on and around days of planned protests including travel to and from N’Djili airport, areas where demonstrations may take place, large sporting or music events, universities, political party headquarters, the parliament and the offices of the electoral commission. In the event of serious unrest, commercial flights may be suspended, roads blocked and borders closed, making it difficult to leave the country. Internet connections and mobile phone networks may have reduced services or be cut off. Schools may be closed. Previous periods of unrest have seen an increased military and police presence in Kinshasa and other major cities, with stop-and-search checkpoints appearing in some areas, especially after dark.
• France * GOV.UK * Significant industrial action is continuing across France. This is primarily affecting transport and public services, with ongoing cancellations and severe delays to train, metro, bus and tram services. Eurostar services are also affected and there may also be disruption to ferry services, road and air travel. As part of the ongoing industrial action, wider demonstrations are planned across France. Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities.
• France * GOV.AU * Large-scale strike action is continuing across France. Expect ongoing demonstrations and significant disruptions to public transport, train, air and other public services. Avoid protests and demonstrations, monitor local media and check with your travel provider before travelling.
• Georgia * GOV.UK * Protests took place on 14 November in Tbilisi and other major cities including Batumi and Kutaisi. Further protests are likely. You should remain vigilant, stay away from any large gatherings and demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Guinea * GOV.UK * The National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) has announced further regular demonstrations and these are likely to continue. There have been weekly demonstrations across Conakry and in other towns throughout Guinea, leading to significant travel disruption and a number of violent incidents including deaths. You should remain vigilant, stay clear of areas where demonstrators are gathering and monitor local media.
• Guinea-Bissau * GC.CA * The second round of the presidential election will take place on December 29, 2019. Demonstrations in Bissau could continue before, during and after the election. Due to the tense political climate, these demonstrations could lead to violence. Recent demonstrations have resulted in a death and several injuries. Be very vigilant if you’re travelling in the affected areas.
• Guinea-Bissau * GOV.UK * Guinea-Bissau suffers from political instability. The country held the first round of Presidential Elections on 24 November and is scheduled to hold a second round on 29 December. Ahead of these elections, there has been an increase in civil unrest, street demonstrations and large public gatherings, which you should avoid. You should exercise a high degree of caution should you decide to travel to Guinea-Bissau. In the event of any political unrest you should follow the advice of local authorities.
• Guyana * GOV.UK * In December 2018 the government lost a vote of confidence which should have triggered elections within three months. This did not happen and a series of legal challenges followed. However the President has now instructed the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) that elections are to take place on 2 March 2020. Visitors may see an increase in protests over the coming months leading to elections.
• Hong Kong * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Hong Kong due to civil unrest.
• Hong Kong * GOV.UK * Recent protests have seen the use of petrol bombs and Molotov cocktails. Unauthorised protests have been met by a more rapid and severe police response, including heavy use of tear gas, bean bag rounds and “sponge grenades”, and rubber bullets. Police have also deployed water cannon and, very occasionally, live rounds have also been deployed. Protests can deviate from planned routes or rally locations and spill over into nearby public spaces, such as shopping centres, housing estates and public transport hubs. If you are in and around areas where demonstrations are, you should remain vigilant, follow the advice of local authorities and move away quickly to a safe place.
• India * GC.CA * Demonstrations against new citizenship legislation are taking place in parts of the country. Violent clashes have occurred between demonstrators and security forces. Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, preventing gatherings of more than four people, has been imposed in some areas. Other restrictions may be put in place without notice. Expect disruptions to transportation and communications (Internet and cellular services) in some areas. Monitor local media for updated information on locations affected by demonstrations. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Check with your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will affect your travel plans.
• India * GOV.UK * Demonstrations against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) are taking place in parts of the country, some of which have been violent. Curfews have been imposed in some areas. Transport and communications (internet and mobile services) may be affected. Further disruptions may take place without notice. You should exercise caution, monitor local media for the latest information, follow instructions of the local authorities and allow more time for travel.
• India * GOV.AU * Demonstrations against the new Citizenship Amendment Act are taking place in parts of the country. Some have turned violent. Local authorities have imposed curfews in some areas. Transport and communications may be disrupted without notice. Allow more time for travel. Be alert, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Liberia * GOV.UK * Opposition groups cancelled a large scale protest planned for 30 December 2019. Protests are now expected to be held in Monrovia in early January. You should monitor local and international media reports, avoid large crowds and demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Montenegro * GOV.UK * Protests take place occasionally in Montenegro, and are usually peaceful but can cause disruption. Protests against the Law on Freedom of Religion or Belief and the Legal Status of Religious Communities which was adopted in December 2019 are likely over Orthodox Christmas (6-8 January).
• Nepal * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in Nepal due to   the potential for isolated political violence.
• Réunion * GC.CA * An ongoing large-scale general strike began across the territory on December 5, 2019. Certain services may be disrupted. Monitor local media, including social media. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Spain * GC.CA * Demonstrations may take place sporadically in Catalonia, including in Barcelona, in response to political events. Violent clashes between demonstrators and police have taken place in the past.  Demonstrations may cause significant disruptions to transportation, including access to roads, airports, and the railway and metro systems. Flight delays or cancellations, as well as disruptions at ports, are also possible.  If you’re in or travelling to the region: monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations; avoid demonstrations and large gatherings; contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans; follow the instructions of local authorities.
• The Gambia * GOV.UK * There has been an increase in the number and frequency of protests in The Gambia, primarily in the Kombo districts. There are reports of planned political demonstrations which may take place during the period December 2019 to January 2020. You should avoid large gatherings in public areas, monitor local media for up-to-date information and follow the advice of local authorities.
• The Gambia * GOV.AU * Political protests are planned in December 2019 and January 2020. Avoid large public gatherings as they may turn violent. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities. We haven’t changed our level of advice: Exercise a high degree of caution  in The Gambia.

Entry and Exit Requirements

• Chile * GOV.AU * If you are visiting Chile for tourism for 90 days or less, you will now get a tourist card on arrival. The Chilean Government has removed the Reciprocity Fee for Australian travellers.
• Macao * GOV.UK * There are reports of greater scrutiny from mainland authorities at border crossings into Macao at this time, including checks on travellers’ electronic devices
• Marshall Islands * GC.CA * All travelers between 6 months of age to adults born in or after 1957 must show proof of up-to-date measles vaccination given at least 2 weeks before entry to the Republic of the Marshall Islands.  Persons who fail to do so will be denied entry.
• Marshall Islands * GOV.AU * Due to the measles outbreak in the Pacific, to enter Marshall Islands you will need to present either a measles vaccination certificate or a letter from your doctor. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Kidnapping

• Iran * U.S. Department of State * Do not travel to Iran due to the risk of kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens.
• Mozambique * GOV.UK * Due to the presence of groups with links to Islamic extremism, there is a threat of kidnap in Mozambique. The threat is particularly acute in northern districts of Cabo Delgado province.
• Nigeria * GOV.UK * There’s a high threat of kidnap throughout Nigeria. Kidnaps can be motivated by criminality or terrorism, and could be carried out for financial or political gain. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the risk of kidnap increases after dark. The security environment in the north east has deteriorated since 2018 and there is a heightened risk of kidnap. Kidnaps in the north east have included humanitarian and private sector workers. There are also reports that Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) are continuing to actively plan to kidnap foreigners. As well as in north-east Nigeria, this is believed to include some northern and middle belt states including Bauchi, Gombe, Kano, Kaduna, Niger and Adamawa. If you’re working or travelling in areas where there is a Boko Haram or ISWA presence, especially in the north-east of Nigeria, you should be aware of the risk of terrorist kidnapping.

Law and Culture

• Belgium * GOV.AU * The Belgian Government provides information in the case of emergencies through the Belgian Crisis Centre (available in French, Dutch or German) and social media (Facebook and Twitter). You can also register to be notified in an emergency situation through the Belgian Public Alert System (Be-Alert).
• China * U.S. Department of State * Exercise increased caution in China due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws and special restrictions on dual U.S. Chinese citizens.
• Falkland Islands * GOV.UK * Mines and unexploded ordnance from the 1982 conflict remains on the Falkland Islands and occasionally can be found on any of the major battle fields. All mine fields have been identified, are well mapped and fenced-off. The fences are hung with red warning triangles stating ‘mines’. It is an offence, punishable by imprisonment or large fine, to enter these areas, remove, damage or obscure the signs, or cut or remove any part of the fence. If you come across anything you think may be ordinance, please follow the below guidance from the Royal Falkland Islands Police: Do NOT touch the item. Clearly mark the area where the item is. If safe to do so, take a picture of the item but do not approach. Call 999 from a safe distance and wait for the police to arrive. Detailed maps of minefield locations are available locally.
• Japan * GOV.AU * Reconsider your need to travel to the restricted areas near the Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant.
• Nauru * GOV.UK * Internet services are available in Nauru, but some sites may be legally blocked.
• Philippines * GOV.UK * The annual procession of the Black Nazarene will be held on Thursday 9 January in the City of Manila, which the local government has declared as a public holiday. It will start around 5:00 am at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park and pass through the westbound lane of P. Burgos to Jones Bridge, ending in Quiapo Church in Plaza Miranda. The procession may last more than 20 hours and attract over a million participants. If you’re in the area, you should avoid large gatherings and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Solomon Islands * GOV.AU * As of 28 December 2019 you need to show proof of vaccination against measles to enter Solomon Islands. If you don’t provide evidence you may need to report for a medical examination. Bring your official vaccination record with you.
• Trinidad and Tobago * GOV.UK * In December 2019, legislation came into force to decriminalise possession of up to 30 grams of marijuana/cannabis. Anyone with more than 30 grams of cannabis, or more than five grams of cannabis resin, commits an offence and is liable to a fine of TT$50,000. You are not allowed to smoke in public spaces or while operating a vehicle. Severe penalties will remain in place for other drug related offences, including attempting to export narcotics.
• United Arab Emirates * GOV.UK * If you wish to carry out media activity related to the production, transmission and/or distribution of printed, digital, audio, video and/or visual information, you will be required to obtain the appropriate permission from the Emirati authorities in advance. Failure to do so could result in imprisonment and a substantial fine.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua; Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe; China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam; Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay; Chile; Australia * GDACS * The Drought alert level is Orange. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events.
• Ecuador * GC.CA * On December 13, 2019, local authorities raised the alert level for the Sangay volcano to yellow due to an increase in volcanic activity. Explosive activity is ongoing since then. Volcanic ash may cover some parts of the country. Follow the instructions of local authorities, including any evacuation order. Monitor local media to stay informed of the current situation. Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans.
• Indonesia * GOV.AU * Since 31 December 2019, there has been heavy rain and flooding in several provinces, resulting in injuries and deaths. Expect transport disruptions and follow the advice of local authorities.
• New Zealand * GOV.AU * The response to the volcanic eruption on White Island has moved into a recovery phase. Further eruptions are possible. Avoid the area and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Turkey * GOV.UK * Many parts of Turkey are subject to earthquakes. You should familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Other

• Netherlands * GOV.UK * Since Thursday 5 December, Eurostar services have been affected by industrial action by railway workers in France. Cancellations and delays are expected. You should check services before travelling.
• North Korea * UN News * The UN Secretary-General is “deeply concerned” that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) has ended a moratorium on nuclear and missile tests, his spokesman said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
• Turkey * GOV.UK * Following an incident on 7 January 2019, there are cancellations and disruptions to flights arriving at and departing from Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul. If you’re travelling via Sabiha Gokcen, you should contact your airline for updated information.

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.