Protests and Demonstrations

Public protests and demonstrations are common, but even a peaceful protest or demonstration can become violent without warning.  Below you can find safety and security recommendations for UT Dallas travelers on authorized activities to mitigate risk before and during a demonstration abroad.

Before departure, we recommend UT Dallas travelers to:

• Register with On Call your UT Dallas related travel itinerary.
• Take time to complete a Personal Emergency Action Plan.

Stay connected and aware of current developments

• Enroll in the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) if a U.S. Citizen. Follow similar procedures with your home country embassy at your destination if not a U.S. Citizen.
• Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
• Monitor your UT Dallas email address for travel updates from On Call International and UT Dallas.
• Download the On Call International app to get travel notifications and alerts relevant to your destination.
• Monitor the media and local developments closely and follow any instructions or advice issued by the local authorities.

Be prepared

• Review or create an emergency communication plan.
• Avoid large crowds and crowded places. Exercise particular caution during high-profile public events (sporting contests, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, political rallies, demonstrations, etc.)
• Avoid potential flashpoint locations, including political rallies where localized violence is likely; monitor local media reports for additional information.
• Avoid the vicinity of government buildings (parliament buildings and embassies are likely protest locations during periods of unrest/tensions).
• Be aware of immediate surroundings and exercise vigilance when in public places, tourist sites, places frequented by tourists, or using transportation.
• Have an emergency plan of action ready.
• If you have specific safety concerns, such as a suspicious object, contact local law enforcement authorities.
• In case of emergency, re-establish your safety first, contact local assistance services as needed, contact On Call International 24/7 at +1-978-651-9722

During a demonstration

• Do not participate in a demonstration abroad. In many countries it is illegal for non-citizens to participate in demonstrations.
• Maintain a low profile and quickly but calmly vacate an area at the first sign that demonstrators and/or security force personnel are gathering.
• Do not attempt to cross roadblocks and reconfirm the status of routes prior to setting out.
• Do not stay to watch or take photographs or video of rallies and demonstrations.
• In the event of violence, shelter in place or move to a secure location as soon as it is safe to do so, and stand fast until the situation normalizes.

After an incident

• These type of incidents can be impactful. Please do not hesitate to use your UTD resources if you need support.
  • If on an authorized activity abroad, contact On Call International 24/7 at +1-978-651-9722 to access telecounseling services.
  • If you are a student experiencing a personal crisis, call 972-UTD-TALK (972-883-8255) to access a mental health professional 24/7.