101320 – World Status Report

This report intends to give the UTD Community a snapshot of international risks, and other issues as reported by the linked official sources from the U.S. and other countries.

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

• Armenia * GC.CA * Avoid non-essential travel to Armenia due to the risk of a widened armed conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
• Azerbaijan * GC.CA * Avoid non-essential travel to Azerbaijan due to the risk of a widened armed conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia
• Azerbaijan * GOV.UK * The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advise against all travel to: Nagorno-Karabakh and the military occupied area surrounding it, Fuzuli, Beylagan, Aghjabadi, Khojavand, Aghdam, Barda, Tartar, Yevlax, Mingechevir, Goranboy, Ganja, Goygol Shemkir, Dashkasan, Gadabay, Aghstafa, Samux, Tovuz, Qazak rayons. within 5km of the Line of Contact. within 5km of the border with Armenia. The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to the rest of Azerbaijan due to current military action and under the global advisory against international travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Conflict and Terrorism

• Azerbaijan * GOV.AU * There is ongoing military action in the Nagorno-Karabakh region and reports of shelling outside this region. If you’re already in Azerbaijan, don’t travel outside of Baku and the Absheron Peninsula. Follow the local media and advice of local authorities for the latest updates.
• Kyrgyzstan * GC.CA * Protests have been occurring in several cities since the parliamentary elections, held on October 4, 2020. In Bishkek, protesters broke into the Parliament building. Clashes between protesters and security forces have occurred, resulting in injuries. Police have used tear gas, water cannon and stun grenades to disperse crowds. The political situation remains volatile and unpredictable. If you are currently in Kyrgyzstan: avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on the current situation.
• Nagorno Karabakh * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * With Russia’s diplomatic support, Azerbaijan and Armenia agreed on a humanitarian ceasefire for Nagorno-Karabakh to exchange prisoners and dead bodies. The ceasefire agreed on 9 October 2020, came into effect on 10 October at noon local time. However, on 10 October, Armenian and Azerbaijani forces accused each other of carrying out new attacks, thereby violating the ceasefire agreement. The population of the conflict zones continues to flee to Armenia and Azerbaijan; their number remains to be confirmed as the registration process is handled differently at different locations. Basic assistance is provided, among others, by volunteers, host communities, local authorities, the Red Cross/Red Crescent and the ICRC. Humanitarian organizations starting to assess humanitarian needs. DG ECHO continues to monitor the situation closely.
• Sudan * GOV.UK * Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Sudan. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.
• Yemen * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * Hostilities escalated in Hodeidah governorate at the end of last week, resulting in the heaviest fighting since the signing of the Stockholm Agreement two years ago. The fiercest confrontations took place in the centre of Hodeidah, around Ad Durayhmi and the outskirts of Hodeidah city. Overall, 38 civilians lost their life, mainly from shellfire. 16 shellings hit civilian houses displacing 73 households. One health centre was also hit, restricting access to medical care to at least 32,173 households. The UN Special Envoy expressed deep concern over the military escalation stating that it constitutes a violation of the Hodeida ceasefire and runs against the spirit of on-going UN facilitated negotiations, and called for immediate stop of the fighting.

Crime

• Lebanon * GOV.UK * There are reports of criminal gangs operating in parts of the Beqaa Valley, especially northern Beqaa, involved in drug cultivation and smuggling. Car theft gangs are prevalent and will steal vehicles by force of arms, particularly along sections of the international highway towards Baalbek. Vehicle thefts have grown significantly and are often targeted by type. Other armed crimes, such as robbery and kidnap, occur in these areas. There are also frequent armed clashes between gangs, and operations by the security forces.

Demonstrations and Social Unrest

• Bolivia * GC.CA *  General elections are scheduled to take place on October 18, 2020. A second round could take place on November 29, 2020, if it is required. Violent demonstrations took place for several weeks after the October 2019 elections. Clashes between protesters and security forces occurred, resulting in hundreds of casualties. Roadblocks disrupted transportation nationwide and essential services were affected in urban and rural areas, resulting in food and fuel shortages. The political situation remains volatile and unpredictable. The cable-car system “Mi Teleferico” and minibuses in La Paz may suspend their operations without notice. Demonstrations are likely during this election period and could suddenly turn violent. If you’re in Bolivia: expect a heightened security presence in several areas, plan to have adequate water, food and fuel supplies, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, avoid crossing road blockades, even if they appear unattended, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
• Burkina Faso * GC.CA * The first round of the presidential and legislative elections are due to take place on November 22, 2020. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections.
• Chile * GC.CA * A national plebiscite on constitutional reform is scheduled to take place on October 25, 2020. The political situation is currently fluid in Chile. Demonstrations, civil unrest and outbreaks of violence may occur at any time. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for information on the ongoing situation. Tourism, logistical, infrastructure and commercial information on the situation in Chile – Government of Chile
• Costa Rica * GC.CA * Demonstrations have been taking place in several cities across the country since September 30, 2020. Roadblocks are disrupting transportation nationwide. Demonstrations are likely to continue in the coming days. They could happen without notice and suddenly turn violent. If you’re in Costa Rica: avoid crossing road blockades, even if they appear unattended, allow extra time to reach your destination, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
• Costa Rica * GOV.UK * Demonstrators against government tax proposals have continued to block a number of roads and highways in several parts of the country. Traffic disruptions can arise unexpectedly and at any time due to these road closures. There have been reports of violent incidents when drivers have tried to ignore the blockades. Check local information and plan your journey carefully to ensure you stay well away from these incidents where possible. Allow extra time for your travel
• Indonesia * GOV.AU * Protests relating to changes in local labour laws have been taking place in various provinces and may continue. Monitor local news and avoid protests as they can turn violent with little notice (see ‘Safety’).
• Kyrgyz Republic * GOV.AU * Large demonstrations are occurring following parliamentary elections. Protesters have clashed with security forces. There have been casualties and protesters have been detained. Further demonstrations could occur without notice and turn violent. Avoid large crowds and any demonstrations. Follow the advice of local authorities. There are enhanced screening procedures and entry restrictions due to COVID-19. (See Travel for details.) Further restrictions could be reintroduced at short notice. Contact your airline or nearest embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic to confirm visa and entry requirements.
• Kyrgyzstan * GOV.UK * Following Parliamentary elections on 4 October large numbers of protesters gathered in central Bishkek and other cities across the country. It is possible that demonstrations will continue in the coming week and there is a risk that these may become violent. Police have previously used tear gas, rubber bullets, stun grenades and water cannon in response to protests. The armed forces have also been deployed to maintain law and order. You are advised to avoid all crowds and demonstrations, maintain a low profile. Follow updates on local media and any instructions from the police or other authorities. The Kyrgyz government has announced emergency measures in Bishkek in response to the protests. These will be in place until 21 October. The army has also been brought in to maintain order. We will update travel advice as details are announced.
• Nigeria * GOV.UK * There are ongoing protests about police conduct in Abuja, Lagos and other locations across Nigeria. These protests can occur spontaneously and unpredictably. You should pay attention to media and social media reports on protest locations, minimise movements and avoid demonstrations.
• Somalia * GOV.AU * Tentative dates for Somali elections have been proposed. These commence with Upper House elections in mid-October and finish in early February with the Presidential election. If you’re in Somalia despite our advice, be aware a spike in violence is likely, including possible attempts to disrupt the elections. There’s an ongoing high threat of terrorism, with attacks expected to continue. A range of measures are in place due to COVID-19. (See ‘Travel’ for more information.) If you wish to leave Somalia, leave now if it is safe to do so.
• Tanzania * GC.CA * General elections are due to take place on October 28, 2020. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections.

Health

• Multi-country * CDC * Polio. There are polio outbreaks in several countries in Asia. CDC recommends that all travelers to these countries be vaccinated fully against polio.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 4-10 October 2020, week 41 * Measles. Since the previous monthly measles update in ECDC’s Communicable Disease Threats Report (CDTR) on 11 September 2020, seven new cases have been reported by three EU/EEA countries and the UK: Germany (5), Poland (1) and Ireland (1). No other countries reported new cases of measles. No new deaths have been reported by EU/EEA countries or the UK. Overall, two deaths have been reported in the EU/EEA and the UK in 2020, both from Bulgaria.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 4-10 October 2020, week 41 * Dengue. Since the previous update, with data as of 30 August 2020 and as of 27 September 2020, 10 623 additional dengue suspected cases, including one severe case and eight deaths, have been reported in Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, Saint Barthélemy and Martinique. In the last reported update, when the period between 02 August and 30 August 2020 was analysed, 5 682 additional dengue suspected cases were reported in the French Antilles. The number of cases notified in Martinique constitute the largest outbreak reported on the island in the last decade. The following cases have been reported since the previous update: Guadeloupe: 2 430 additional suspected cases, including one death case. Saint Martin: 170 additional suspected cases. Saint Barthelemy: 233 additional suspected cases. Martinique: 7 790 additional suspected cases, including one severe case and seven deaths.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 4-10 October 2020, week 41 * Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Since the previous update and as of 6 October 2020, no additional cases of MERS-CoV have been reported by Saudi Arabia health authorities or by WHO.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 4-10 October 2020, week 41 * West Nile Virus. Between 2 and 8 October 2020, EU Member States reported 28 human cases of WNV infection: Italy (11), Germany (7), Greece (5), Spain (3) and Romania (2). Two regions in Germany (Meissen and Halle (Saale)) reported locally-acquired human cases of WNV infection for the first time through TESSy. All other cases were reported from areas that have been affected during previous transmission seasons. This week, one death was reported by Romania. No human cases of WNV infection or deaths were reported from EU neighbouring countries.
• Vietnam * CDC * Diptheria. There is an outbreak of diphtheria in Vietnam. To prevent diphtheria, all travelers should make sure they are up to date with diphtheria vaccination.

Law and Culture

• Rwanda * GOV.UK * Homosexuality is not illegal in Rwanda but remains frowned on by many.LGBT individuals can experience discrimination and abuse, including from local authorities. There are no specific anti-discrimination laws that protect LGBT individuals. See our information and advice page for the LGBT community before you travel.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Chad * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * Since the end of August, floods caused by heavy rainfall have been affecting different regions of Chad (Ndjamena, Lac, Mandoul, Tandjile, Mayo-Kebi East, Batha, Salama, Sila) resulting in the destruction and damage of houses and hence displacement of people. UN OCHA estimates that 388,000 people have been affected by the floods in 19 out of 23 provinces of Chad. DG ECHO is supporting the IFRC’s Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) with an amount of EUR 100,000 to assist 535 households/3,210 people affected by the floods in Ndjamena through the provision of emergency cash transfer for shelters and non-food items, as well as basic health support and WASH. This DREF contribution comes on top of the EUR 500,000 already allocated in response to floods that have affected Chad.
• Indonesia * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * Since 8 October, heavy rain has been affecting Bali, Sumatra and Sulawesi Islands since 8 October, triggering floods and landslides that have resulted in casualties and damage. The Indonesian National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB) reports as of 10 October, one fatality, one injured person, 2 damaged houses, and some damaged roads across Desan Nongan Town (Rendang District, Karangasem Regency, eastern Bali) due to a landslide.  Floods have affected hundreds of people across the country. In North Sumatra Province, AHA Centre reports 1,205 affected people, more than 240 damaged houses across Mandailing Natal Regency, and 340 affected people throughout Mamasa Regency (West Sulawesi Province). Additionally 272 households/1,085 people in Seluma District and 46 households/230 people in South Bengkulu were impacted.  Over the next 24 hours, moderate  rainfall is forecast over Bali, Sumatra, Java and  north-western Sulawesi Islands
• Japan* GC.CA * Tropical storm Chan-hom should move along the southern portion of the Japanese east coast between October 9 and 11, 2020. The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds throughout the weekend to the regions of Okinawa, Kyushu, Shikoku, Chugoku, Kansai. If you are in the affected area: exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Mexico * GOV.UK * Hurricane Delta passed through the Yucátan peninsula in the early hours of Wednesday 7 October. Local services may be disrupted in the affected areas, including Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Isla de las Mujeres, Puerto Morelos and Holbox. Cancun airport re-opened on Wednesday 7 October. Cozumel airport is scheduled to re-open on Thursday 8 October. Please check with your airline or travel agent for details of when flights will resume.
• Multi-country * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * Floods and flood warnings during the last 24 hours reported by national services (European Flood Awareness System – EFAS) Iceland: threshold level 2/3 exceeded for 4 catchments in northern Iceland. Italy: warning level 2/3 for Puglia regions. Georgia: threshold level 2/2 exceeded for Tshenisckali – Ludji station. Slovenia: treshold level 1/1 for Vipava, Ljublanica, Krka, Bistra, Mirna, Termenica, Mura and Sava rivers.
• Multi-country * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * Meteoalarm, as of 12 October at 8.00 UTC. On 12 October: Red alert for strong winds in northern coastal Croatia. On 13 October: no Red alert issued.
• Multi-country * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * Forest fires danger forecast Medium or high danger in southern Portugal, Spain, Greek islands, Sicily, Cyprus, Turkey, Ukraine.
• Multi-country * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * Heavy rain has been affecting central Vietnam, north-eastern, central, and western Cambodia, southern Laos, and central-eastern Thailand since 6-7 October, also due to the passage of tropical storm LINFA on 9-12 October, triggering floods that have resulted in casualties and damage. In Vietnam, media report as of 12 October, at least 17 fatalities, 13 people missing, around 31,000 displaced people, and more than 33,000 damaged houses across the central provinces of Da Nang, Ha Tinh, Quang Bình, Quang Nam, Quang Tri, and Thua Thien-Hue. Rescue teams are accessing the isolated areas by boats to supply instant noodle to people and evacuate children and elderly. So far, 15,392 households/45,835 people have been evacuated to safe places. In Cambodia, 11 fatalities, over 700 displaced people, and more than 14,000 affected people were reported across Pursat, Battambang, Pailin, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang, and Banteay Meanchey Provinces. In Thailand, around 12,000 affected people, and nearly 1,100 damaged houses were reported across several central and eastern Provinces. In Laos, around 900 families were reported affected throughout the southern Province of Savannakhet. Over the next 24 hours, more heavy rain is forecast over most of Vietnam, Cambodia, southern Laos, and eastern Thailand. Localy very heavy rain is forecast over central Vietnam, and south-eastern Laos. 
• Multi-country * GOVT.NZ * Hurricane Delta, a category 4 storm, is expected to make landfall on the northern Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico this evening (6th October local time).  A hurricane warning is in force for Cancun, Playa del Carmen and surrounding areas, including nearby islands such as Cozumel. Hurricane Delta is then currently predicted to make landfall as a category 3 storm in the United States somewhere between the borders of Texas and Louisiana to the border of Alabama and Florida around Friday 9th October (local time).

Other

• Afghanistan * ECHO Daily Flash of 12 October 2020 * In Afghanistan food insecurity is at a life threatening level. The latest Seasonal Food Security Assessment and the Integrated Food Security Classification (IPC) by FAO note an IPC 4 increase (acute humanitarian emergency) from 8% in 2019 to 15% in 2020. 17 million people are predicted to be acutely food insecure between November 2020 and March 2021 (44% of the population). Despite favourable climate conditions leading to good crop growth, insecurity prevents safe access for households to bring in the harvest. This combines with reduced purchasing power of households, because of the Covid pandemic. Despite the start of the intra Afghan peace negotiation in September 2020, violence is at a 5 year high across the country. Provinces are witnessing a significant spike in security incidents over the last 2 months. Because of continued attacks along key transit routes,  the movement of people and goods across provinces is more and more limited, cutting supply lines.
• Honduras * GOV.UK * Due to the movement of migrant caravans, you should take extra care at the walking border crossings with Guatemala. On 1 October, a caravan of approximately 3000 migrants from Honduras, forced their way through Frontera de Corinto (in Izabal) border crossing between Honduras and Guatemala.
• Mexico * GOV.UK * There have been reports of disruptions and tensions at the Mexico-Guatemala border. On 1 October a caravan of approximately 3000 migrants entered Guatemala and are currently making their way through Honduras to Mexico, bound for the United States (USA). Periodic border closures are possible and you should check with local authorities before attempting to cross the land border.

Ebola News

• Democratic Republic of the Congo * Communicable disease threats report, 4-10 October 2020, week 41 * Ebola. Since the last update, and as of 6 October 2020, no additional cases and no new deaths have been reported from the Equateur Province in the DRC. Despite no new cases being reported, there is still evidence that this Ebola virus disease outbreak is ongoing. The response remains challenging, e.g. contacts are lost to follow up, there is insufficient funding, and there are difficulties in carrying out safe and dignified burials.

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.