On March 11, the World Health Organization officially classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic, indicating that every location is likely to be affected, though the exact timing and impact cannot be predicted. Non-essential international and domestic travel should be deferred due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global logistical environment, healthcare systems in all locations, the global economy, the potential for second-order security issues in the short, medium and longer term, as well as the risk of infection with COVID-19. A new virus, SARS-CoV-2, is the cause of COVID-19 disease. The WHO is still learning about the virus and the illness it causes. The disease is spreading from person to person, through contact with infected respiratory droplets. The disease is a mild illness for most; however, it can be severe or fatal to high risk groups.
For more information on confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, refer to the latest Situation Report on the World Health Organization (WHO) website by clicking here. For more general information on the outbreak and WHO’s response, click here.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS IMPLEMENTED WORLDWIDE
A number of countries have relaxed some restrictions that aimed to contain the spread of COVID-19. This includes the relaxation of restrictions on internal movement, reopening of businesses and a resumption of some domestic and international travel. Nevertheless, strict measures remain in place, or are being reimposed, in some locations where there is increasing case activity. In some locations all travel should continue to be deferred, while for others essential travel can resume after undertaking an individual risk assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes.
Countries around the world are implementing entry restrictions in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. For the most upto-date information on current entry restrictions, please visit IATA’s “Government Measures Related to Coronavirus (COVID19)” website by clicking here.
FROSCH TRAVEL RESOURCES
AMERICAS
UNITED STATES
Travelers should monitor developments and follow all official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most states have begun to lift restrictions on mobility and non-essential businesses, though some have halted reopening plans due to a significant increase in COVID-19 cases within at least 40 of the 50 states. The varied impact of the outbreak and local pressure by constituents has led state governors to reopen businesses and lift stay-at-home orders; however, some have issued mandates on wearing masks in public places and quarantining when returning from certain states with high case numbers. More than 3.8 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the United States, with increased activity in the South and West.
NATIONWIDE DEMONSTRATIONS
Travelers in the US over the coming hours should exercise caution and anticipate potential unrest linked to demonstrations over police brutality and reform, among other issues. There are persistent underlying risks associated with such events due to the emotive nature of the issue and the potential presence of firearms, counterdemonstrators, and extremist individuals. Travelers attending related gatherings should be aware of their surroundings, maintain access to reliable means of communication, and leave at the first sign of unrest.
CALIFORNIA
Travelers in Orange county, California over the coming days should anticipate disruption and reconfirm the status of routes due to the ongoing Bond Fire. The wildfire has spread to an area of nearly 11 square miles and is currently around 90% contained. All evacuation orders and warnings have been lifted.
WASHINGTON (DC)
Travelers in Washington DC on December 12 should anticipate disruption during planned protests and counterprotests over the 2020 Presidential Election, and plan journeys accordingly. The rallies will take place two days prior to the casting of the Electoral College votes. Due to controversy over the election and allegations of fraud, tensions in the US are high, and demonstrations have the potential to become unruly. Previous similar rallies have resulted in unrest after dark.
BRAZIL
Travelers in the southern states of Parana, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and Sao Paulo in the coming days should anticipate disruption due to forecast severe storms. Travelers should plan journeys accordingly. The southern region has experienced significant rainfall over the past few days. Brazil’s weather agency, MetSul, has issued an alert for these southern areas in anticipation of flooding and potential mudslides. A cyclonic storm has been positioned off the coast of southern Brazil since last weekend, causing heavy rains and strong winds.
CHILE
Travelers in urban centers on December 10 should avoid anti-government protests due to the risk of unrest. Various activist groups are demanding the release of demonstrators arrested during the October 2019 protests over subway fare hikes. Protesters will gather at 11:00 AM local time at the Plaza de la Constitucion in Santiago; related rallies are expected to take place in other urban centers. Anti-government protests frequently turn violent, often involving the use of tough crowd-control measures and clashes between protesters and security forces.
ECUADOR
Throughout December, travelers in Guayaquil should anticipate heightened security amid an ongoing police operation to combat a recent increase in violent crime. 500 police officers have been deployed to the city to focus on crimes associated with drug trafficking and territory control. Authorities are also considering deploying the National Guard. Travelers should monitor developments and abide by all official directives. Police operations can develop into confrontations with criminal groups, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
HAITI
Throughout December, travelers in Haiti, particularly Port-au-Prince, should anticipate disruption and avoid demonstrations associated with upcoming Presidential, Legislative, and Local Elections to be held in January. While President Jovenel Moise confirmed that elections will take place in January, a specific date has not been announced. Opposition elements in the country have denounced the notion of holding elections while Moise remains in power. The protracted political crisis has caused many unruly demonstrations, which are likely to continue in the lead-up to and in the aftermath of the elections.
Travelers in Port-au-Prince on December 10 should anticipate disruption and avoid a planned march to denounce widespread violence and government corruption. The event, coinciding with International Human Rights Day, will begin at 10:00 AM local time at the Constitution Plaza, and participants will make various stops before rallying in front of the Minister of Justice building.
HONDURAS
Travelers due to travel via Ramon Villeda Morales International Airport (SAP), which serves San Pedro Sula, should reconfirm flights and make alternative transport arrangements. Flooding and damage linked to the recent passage of weather systems, including tropical storms Eta and Iota, has prompted the closure of the airport until at least December 31. Local reports suggest the closure may persist into January-February 2021. All scheduled flights are being rerouted to other Honduran airports.
MEXICO
Travelers in Morelos, Puebla and Tlaxcala states, as well as Mexico City, should monitor developments and follow official directives linked to increased activity at Popocatepetl Volcano. According to the National Center for Disaster Prevention (CENAPRED), volcanic gas and ash emissions reaching 20,000 feet above sea level were recorded on November 29-30. While no Evacuation Orders have been issued, a “Yellow Phase 2” Alert remains in force (second highest on a three-tier scale, ‘prepare for possible evacuation’). A seven-mile exclusion zone is also in place around the volcano.
PERU
Travelers in the Cusco region should anticipate disruption and reconfirm the status of rail routes following demonstrations. PeruRail has announced that their Cusco–Machu Picchu services will be suspended through December 11. Operations have been suspended since December 9 due to the risk of activists blocking the railroad. Protesters have demanded that the company lower fares on the route which had been raised due to restrictions associated with COVID-19. Further associated protests and closures are possible in the coming days.
VENEZUELA
Travelers in Venezuela over the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid demonstrations linked to the recent National Assembly (Parliament) elections, due to the risk of unrest. President Nicolas Maduro’s United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) won a large majority in the December 6 polls, which were boycotted by the main opposition parties. Opposition activists have called for a national day of protest on December 12. Demonstrations carry a significant risk of unrest, including potential clashes between participants and security forces and/or progovernment paramilitaries. In-country travelers should exercise caution and minimize movement during such events.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
ANGOLA
Travelers in urban centers in the coming weeks should anticipate and avoid further anti-government demonstrations. The ruling People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) party ostensibly does not have the capacity, or willingness, to address protesters’ demands; this is liable to trigger further protests and associated unrest. On December 10, a well-attended protest amid heightened security occurred in Luanda; the event passed off peacefully. Earlier, protests that broke out in several cities on November 11-12 were forcibly dispersed by police, with live ammunition reportedly used. The use of forcible dispersal measures by security forces during protests underlines the indirect risks to bystanders.
Travelers in the Cabinda exclave on December 12 should avoid a protest organized by civil society activists calling for the release of detained activists. They are also protesting against the alleged violation of human rights in Cabinda by the Angolan central government and the acute socioeconomic situation that continues to afflict the province. Participants will gather from 11:00 AM local time at Largo Primeiro de Maio and march along Avenida Duque de Chaizi towards “Multiusos.” A similar demonstration on November 28 was reportedly dispersed; as such, attending security force personnel may use heavy-handed tactics to disperse and detain protesters, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
CAMEROON
The provisional results of the recent regional elections were released on December 9, showing an overwhelming victory by the ruling Democratic Rally of the Cameroonian People (RDPC), which won nine out of ten regions. Adamawa region was won by the National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP). Although the electoral period has thus far remained generally peaceful, there have been a few isolated incidents of violence. Travelers should continue to exercise caution and avoid all associated gatherings due to the risk of local unrest, as the elections and the results are unlikely to pacify separatists in Northwest and Southwest regions.
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
Travelers across the Central African Republic, particularly Bangui, should exercise caution during the official campaign period for the December 27 General Elections, set to take place on December 12-25. The decision by the Constitutional Court to invalidate several candidates has heightened tensions in the country. Former President Francois Bozize (in office 2003-2013), who is currently in his hometown of Bossangoa, has been excluded from running in the presidential polls. His return to Bangui is a key trigger for unrest. All related political gatherings should be avoided, and travelers should monitor the security situation in their location on a daily basis.
Several cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been detected this year. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in undervaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
CHAD
Throughout December, travelers in Kabbia Department should abide by a local curfew following recent communal violence. Dozens were killed on November 23-25 in fighting between farmers and semi-nomadic cattle herders. Although a reconciliation ceremony took place on December 1, local authorities have extended the 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time curfew through December 15.
Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been detected in several regions of the country. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
CONGO (DRC)
Further protests are likely in the coming days following President Tshisekedi’s decision to end the coalition between his Heading for Change (Cap pour le Changement, CACH) coalition and the Common Front for Congo (FCC) alliance. Scuffles between rival activists were reported on December 7 near the Palais du Peuple (the seat of the National Assembly and Senate) in Kinshasa. Further demonstrations by supporters of the FCC, the CACH and the opposition Lamuka coalition are likely and should be avoided due to the risk of local unrest. Besides Kinshasa, gatherings are likely in Haut-Katanga province, including its capital Lubumbashi, and in Kasai and Kasai-Central provinces.
CÔTE D’IVOIRE
From December 10, travelers in Cote d’Ivoire should plan journeys accounting for protests associated with a nationwide strike in the education sector. Travelers of the Union of Christian Confessional Schools of Cote d’Ivoire, supported by the Centrale Syndicale Humanisme union, have called for a 48-hour walkout over poor financial benefits and wages. While details of associated gatherings are unknown at present, flashpoint locations include the Ministry of Employment, Ministry of National Education, and Ministry of Finance buildings in Abidjan. Strike-related rallies are likely until December 12.
Travelers in Abidjan on December 14 should exercise caution and anticipate disruption around the Presidential Palace during the ceremony of investiture of President Alassane Ouattara. The event will take place in the morning with a limited number of attendees; however, there is potential for gatherings that could turn unruly in the vicinity. Travelers should anticipate a heightened security force presence in the Plateau area and related traffic disruption on the day.
ETHIOPIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Ethiopia amid an ongoing conflict between the federal government and the Tigray state authorities. Travelers should also defer non-essential domestic movement within Ethiopia itself. Although Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced on November 28 that Tigray’s capital Mekelle had been captured, there are reports of ongoing clashes between federal forces and the Tigrayan People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). According to international media, a UN security team was shot at while attempting to access a refugee camp in Shimelba. The delivery of aid has also been delayed due to the fighting.
GHANA
Travelers in major urban centers, particularly Accra, should exercise caution in the coming days following the publication of the December 7 General Election results. The Electoral Commission announced on December 9 that incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) won the election with 52% of the vote. Leader of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) party John Dramani Mahama received 47% and has since publicly rejected the result. Heightened tensions between rival political party supporters have resulted in local outbursts of unrest in several urban centers, with further disorder possible in the short term. In Accra, protest flashpoints include Kwame Nkrumah Circle and main political party offices.
GUINEA
Travelers in Conakry on December 14-15 should avoid demonstrations around the forthcoming inauguration of President Alpha Conde, due to the risk of unrest. On December 14 at 9:00 AM local time, a women’s activist group will lead a march in protest at alleged security force brutality and the incarceration of demonstrators. The event will begin at the Bambeto Roundabout and proceed towards the Belle-Vue Heliport. Thereafter, supporters of the opposition National Front for the Defense of the Constitution (FNDC) coalition on December 15 will gather in the Kaloum area. Participants will denounce Conde’s inauguration for a third term, which is scheduled for the same day.
IRAQ
Travelers in Kurdistan Region on December 11 should avoid fresh protests over unpaid wages due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrations are planned in urban centers from 1:30 PM local time. A heightened security force presence should be expected along key intercity routes and near protest flashpoints, including public squares, government buildings and political party offices. Clashes are possible between demonstrators and security force personnel amid ongoing movement restrictions in Suleimaniyah and Halabja governorates, as well as a ban on unauthorized gatherings.
Travelers in Kurdistan Region should avoid further protests over unpaid wages and minimize travel outside of governorate capitals, due to the heightened risk of unrest. At least nine people have been killed, and 65 others injured, in related unrest since December 2. A ban on movement between Suleimaniyah and Halabja governorates, as well as between cities and towns in each governorate, has been extended until 11:59 AM local time on December 11. Intermittent disruption to internet services continues to be reported within Suleimaniyah.
LEBANON
Travelers in Lebanon in the coming weeks should avoid further protests over the potential removal of subsidies on some imported basic goods. Related protests have occurred since December 7 in Beirut, Tripoli, and Sidon. The removal of subsidies, and subsequent increase in prices, is expected to heighten anti-government unrest and crime rates against the backdrop of heightened political instability and a deepening economic crisis.
LIBERIA
Travelers in Liberia should continue to closely monitor developments and avoid all gatherings linked to the December 8 Senatorial Election and Constitutional Referendum. Major political opposition parties have formed the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP) alliance to boost their chances of securing a majority against the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC). Clashes erupted on December 9 in Buchanan between rival supporters.
MALI
Travelers in urban centers should expect protests and associated disruption during a trade union strike on December 14-18. Labor unions, including the National Union of Workers of Mali (UNTM), have called for a second nationwide strike following industrial action on November 18-20 over a perceived lack of employment rights. While most events are likely to pass off peacefully, local unrest during demonstrations cannot be ruled out.
NIGER
Travelers in Niger should monitor developments and avoid all gatherings linked to the election campaign beginning December 5. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, authorities intend to go ahead with the Legislative and Presidential Elections on December 27. A total of 30 candidates will compete in the first round of the Presidential vote. The threat of militant attacks during the election campaign and around the time of the vote will be heightened. Travelers should avoid all political gatherings as a precaution.
Travelers are reminded of the risks posed by militant activity in Tillaberi region, particularly in areas within 18 miles of the border with Burkina Faso. At least two people were killed overnight on December 3-4, and two soldiers are reported missing, following a militant attack on a military and forest outpost at La Tapoa. Travelers should have solid security arrangements for all road travel outside Niamey. An increase in attacks is likely ahead of the upcoming December 27 Presidential Elections. This will exacerbate the difficulties of an already challenging security environment for organizations operating in that region.
NIGERIA
Travelers in Lagos should expect significant travel disruption during repair work on the Third Mainland Bridge that began on November 21, and plan journeys accordingly. Until February 22, the Adekunle to Adeniji Adele end section of the island inbound lane of the bridge will be partially closed, during which traffic will be diverted.
Travelers are reminded of the need for stringent security precautions during essential travel to Kaduna, Katsina and Zamfara states following a reported increase in bandit attacks. In Kaduna, suspected bandits killed at least 16 people on December 8 on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. In Zamfara, at least four people were killed on December 5 in the Talata Mafara local government area (LGA). Most recently in Katsina, bandits attacked multiple villages in the Sabuwa LGA on November 28-29, killing at least seven people.
SENEGAL
Travelers in Dakar should anticipate and avoid further protests in the coming days in the vicinity of Cheikh Anta Diop University campus. On December 9, students, protesting against the non-payment of scholarships, blocked roads around the campus, including Avenue Cheikh Anta Diop. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowds; around 30 casualties were reported. Associated protests are liable to turn disruptive, and local unrest may occur during such gatherings.
SOMALIA
Travelers in Somalia should monitor developments following an announcement on December 3 by President Donald Trump that US troops would withdraw from Somalia by January 15, 2021. The 700 US military personnel stationed in Somalia will be redeployed to neighboring countries. The announcement comes ahead of Somalia’s upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections tentatively set for December 2020 and February 2021 respectively. In-country travelers should exercise caution amid the possibility of an uptick in attacks by the Islamist extremist movement al-Shabab, particularly around election-related events.
Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) cases have been detected in multiple locations. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in undervaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
SOUTH AFRICA
Travelers in the Soweto area of Johannesburg on December 12 should plan journeys accounting for disruption during marches against gender-based violence. Participants will gather at 9:00 AM local time at the Protea, Naledi, Meadowlands and Dobsonville police stations and proceed towards Moroka police station before converging at Thokoza Park. The events are likely to pass off peacefully.
SOUTH SUDAN
At least 15 people were killed, and 28 others injured, on December 9 in clashes between three sections of the Gok community in Cueibet county. Social unrest is expected to continue in the coming days following the killing of highprofile members of the community during the clashes. Initial confrontations were reportedly driven by the revenge killing of a prison officer on December 8. Police forces in the area have reportedly defied orders and engaged in confrontations along tribal lines. State authorities have requested the national government to send reinforcements. The latest communal clashes and security forces’ limitations to assist highlight the extreme risks in South Sudan, as well as the need to avoid all travel outside of Juba and the Palouge oil field.
TUNISIA
Travelers in Tunis on December 12 should plan journeys bypassing a protest by the Free Constitutional Party at 10:00 AM local time at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The party is demanding the International Union of Muslim Scholars be disbanded over allegations that it promotes Islamist radicalization and terrorism. Although the gathering is expected to pass off peacefully, travelers should plan journeys avoiding it as a precaution and to minimize travel delays.
TURKEY
Travelers in Turkey are reminded of the need to exercise vigilance and minimize time spent around potential targets for militant attacks following recent foiled terror plots and the arrests of suspected militants. On December 10, a militant suspected to be affiliated with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) was killed by security force personnel in Viransehir; the suspect was reportedly planning to detonate an explosive belt. Earlier on December 7-9, authorities announced the arrests of at least 25 suspected members of the extremist Islamic State (IS) group during counter-terrorism raids across Adana, Istanbul, and Kayseri provinces.
UGANDA
Travelers across Uganda, particularly Central and Western regions, in the coming weeks should continue to avoid all electoral campaign rallies due to the risk of unrest. President Yoweri Museveni began his presidential campaign in the Western region on December 7, starting from the city of Mbarara. The rallies were well attended, and a heightened security forces presence was reported in surrounding areas. Travelers should continue to monitor developments and avoid related gatherings due to the credible risk of unrest.
ZIMBABWE
Travelers in Zimbabwe in the coming days should exercise caution and anticipate disruption due to heavy rain and possible flash flooding. According to the Zimbabwean Meteorological Department (MSD), poor weather conditions are expected across the country, including Harare. Heavy rain and flash flooding can disrupt road network throughout the country and increase the risk of road traffic accidents as road conditions may deteriorate, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure is poorer.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
AUSTRALIA
Travelers in Western Australia state should plan journeys accounting for disruption until at least December 12 due to the passage of a tropical low. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has forecast that the weather system will move southeast from the Indian Ocean toward the coast of Pilbara region and make landfall on December 11. The storm will bring heavy rainfall to coastal areas of Pilbara and Kimberley region. Although the system is expected to weaken and dissipate by December 12, disruption to flights and other transport is possible in affected areas.
Travelers in Australia until at least the end of February should continue to plan travel accounting for fire danger warnings related to ongoing bushfires and follow all official directives. A complete fire ban remains in effect in parts of Queensland. Travelers should maintain flexible itineraries and be prepared to defer or change travel plans, due to fire bans that may be imposed at short notice.
Travelers in urban centers should plan journeys bypassing protests by the Extinction Rebellion (XR) environmentalist group until at least December 19 in order to minimize travel delays. Demonstrators are liable to block major roads, including in central business districts (CBDs), during rush hour. An increased security force presence should be expected around gatherings.
BANGLADESH
Travelers should anticipate travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the ongoing winter season, which usually lasts until February. Fog and associated poor visibility frequently causes flight delays and cancellations during this period. Such conditions may also affect road journeys. On December 9, flights at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) and Chittagong’s Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP) were disrupted for several hours due to poor visibility. Travelers should reconfirm the status of flights and routes before setting out.
CHINA
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to areas of Chengdu where COVID-19-related restrictions have been tightened and continue to defer such travel to the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (IMAR)’s Hulunbuir region. In-country travelers can resume normal travel to Shanghai, where areas previously rated ‘medium risk’ (middle level on a three-tier scale) by authorities have been downgraded to ‘low risk’ from December 8. Travelers should also continue to confirm any remaining requirements at their original location and destination when planning travel to and from areas of Shanghai.
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to areas of Chengdu and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (IMAR)’s Hulunbuir region where COVID-19-related restrictions have been tightened. Travelers should also continue to confirm any remaining requirements at their original location and destination when planning travel to and from other areas of Chengdu and Hulunbuir region.
FIJI
Travelers in Fiji should plan journeys accounting for potential disruption until at least December 16 due to the passage of a Tropical Depression. The storm has strengthened from a tropical disturbance and, according to the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS), it has the potential to strengthen further in the coming days. The system is projected to pass north of the main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu in a southwestward direction on December 12 without making landfall. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected in most of the country during the storm’s passage.
HONG KONG
Travelers in Hong Kong should continue to monitor developments amid rigorous police enforcement of the National Security Law (NSL) and against illegal assembly. Underlying tensions may drive small-scale gatherings organized by activist groups, which should be avoided as a precaution. There is also potential for hardline protesters to employ violent tactics. According to police, three men early on December 1 threw nine petrol bombs at a truck in the car park of the Police Sports and Recreation Club in Sham Shui Po. No casualties were reported.
INDIA
Travelers should anticipate travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the ongoing winter season which will last until February. Dense fog and poor visibility can cause significant disruption to flights, train services, and road journeys. Northern and eastern states such as Asom, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, as well as the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Chandigarh, and Delhi, typically experience the worst of the adverse winter conditions. Major cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai, may also be affected.
Travelers are advised to defer all travel due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health care situation in the country. Cases of COVID-19 continue to occur across the country in large numbers. A number of cities have been significantly impacted, with the healthcare sector particularly affected. As a result of increased demand, only limited care may be available in both private and public medical systems. Travelers should defer all travel until the situation improves.
Organochlorine found in some water samples; food or water contamination suspected. Authorities are investigating an unknown illness that caused hundreds of people to fall sick in Eluru City. Tests have not determined the cause yet, although preliminary reports suggest presence of heavy metals in blood samples. Investigations are ongoing. Tests were negative for COVID-19, as well as other viral and bacterial infections. To minimize the risk of exposure, travelers are advised to pay attention to usual hygiene precautions, wash hands often, and select safe food and water.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should continue to expect significant disruption amid ongoing farmers’ protests over new agriculture laws. Farmers’ groups rejected the government’s proposal to amend the laws on December 9. The groups have called for nationwide sit-in protests on December 14 at district headquarters. Protesters have also announced that they will blockade sections of the New Delhi-Jaipur and New Delhi-Agra Motorways by December 12.
INDONESIA
Throughout December, travelers in Indonesia should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rains and flooding. Heavy rains are forecast to affect various parts of the country throughout December, including Jakarta. Adverse weather conditions may cause flooding and landslides. More recently, flooding and landslides have occurred in several areas, including North Sumatra and Central Java provinces. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
Travelers in Papua and West Papua provinces in the coming weeks should exercise caution and avoid all gatherings related to the separatist Free Papua Movement (OPM). While the founding anniversary of the OPM on December 1 passed off largely peacefully, there remains an increased likelihood of unrest during related demonstrations, as well as separatist attacks, in the weeks following the anniversary date. The potential for unrest is further exacerbated by upcoming local elections that began on December 9. Authorities have deployed additional security force personnel across both provinces and may suspend mobile internet services locally should tensions escalate.
NEPAL
Travelers in Nepal on December 14 should avoid nationwide protests by the main opposition Nepali Congress (NC) party, due to the risk of unrest. The demonstrations are linked to the recent arrest of several NC officials for allegedly breaching prohibitory orders. Reports indicate related gatherings will take place in all 77 districts. While specific details are unclear, potential venues in Kathmandu include the Prime Minister’s residence in the Baluwatararea and Singha Durbar (Parliament). Demonstrators are liable to block roads, and police may use tough measures to disperse crowds. Any unrest would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
NEW CALEDONIA
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over the planned sale of a large nickel plant in Goro. A formal agreement regarding the sale was reached on December 9, after which related protest activity reportedly intensified. The plant was the target of multiple intrusion attempts on December 10, including an incident in which demonstrators set alight an administrative building in the complex. Employees at the site were evacuated as a safety precaution, and no injuries were reported. Additional short-notice protests by groups opposed to the sale are likely, with a risk of such events degenerating into local unrest.
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to New Caledonia following the suspension of all international commercial flights to and from the country until further notice. Effective December 10, authorities have suspended all international commercial flights amid ongoing unrest in the country.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in urban centers in the coming weeks should continue to avoid opposition protests. Opposition parties plan to hold a series of rallies in Lahore from December 7, leading up to a large-scale demonstration on December 13 at Greater Iqbal Park to mark the end of the first phase of opposition protests. The December 13 gathering is expected to proceed despite a ban by authorities. Traffic disruption and heightened security measures can be expected around protest venues. While most of the protests are expected to be peaceful, scuffles between protesters and police remain possible.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Travelers in Papua New Guinea, especially Port Moresby, over the coming weeks should closely monitor developments following a Supreme Court verdict which ruled the adjournment of Parliament until April 2021 as unconstitutional. The Supreme Court has ordered the Parliament to reconvene on December 14. While the agenda of the next parliamentary sitting remains unclear, the recent development has paved the way for a possible noconfidence motion against the government of Prime Minister James Marape. Travelers should expect a heightened security presence to deter any short-notice gatherings around the Morauta House (the Prime Minister’s office) as well as the Parliament House and Government House.
TAIWAN
Travelers in northern Taiwan until at least December 13 should anticipate disruption to rail services due to ongoing restoration on the lines connecting Taipei and the east coast, including Yilan. The Taiwan Railways Administration has suspended the Shen’ao Line, which runs through Ruifang in New Taipei and Zhongzheng in Keelung, due to an earlier landslide between Ruifang and Houtong train stations in New Taipei. Train delays were also reported on the Pingxi line in New Taipei. Meanwhile, replacement bus services are in operation.
THAILAND
Travelers in Bangkok over the coming hours should avoid the vicinity of Government House as a precaution. Protesters have gathered in the area to demand the scrapping of an industrial project in Chana district. While the demonstration is currently peaceful, and turnout is relatively low, any attempt by police to disperse the gathering is liable to result in local unrest. Significant traffic disruption has been reported on Phisanulok Road and Nakhon Ratchasima Road, where police have erected roadblocks to prevent would-be attendees from joining the protest.
Local media on December 9 reported that five men had been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the kidnapping of a Chinese businessman. The victim was abducted in Bangkok’s Watthana district on December 5, and later rescued from a resort in Suphan Buri province. Kidnappings of foreign nationals remain rare and are not reflective of the main security risks for business travelers in Thailand. Travelers should nevertheless remain vigilant and exercise caution when conducting business in the country.
VIETNAM
Throughout December, travelers in central and southern provinces should plan journeys accounting for disruption in areas affected by heavy rains and flooding. Persistent heavy rains since November 28 have flooded several areas in Khanh Hoa province. Authorities in Nha Trang evacuated around 2,400 people from residential zones due to flooding in low-lying areas. Disruption to road and rail services was also reported in Nha Trang and adjoining regions. The Khanh Le Pass and Nha Trang Railway Station remain blocked due to flooding. There have been four confirmed deaths in the province’s Van Ninh district.
Under a bilateral agreement, business travelers from South Korea visiting for less than 14 days from January 1, 2021 can enter Vietnam without undertaking the mandatory 14-day quarantine. Such travelers must show proof that they have tested negative for COVID-19 in the last five days, will undergo further tests, and have their health status monitored throughout their stay.
EUROPE
ALBANIA
Travelers in Tirana in the coming days should anticipate and avoid protests linked to a fatal police shooting of a man on December 8. The man was allegedly shot after violating a curfew related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Protesters gathered on December 9 in front of the Ministry of Interior and the Government’s office, as well as at Skanderbeg Square, to demand the resignation of the Interior Minister. Police forcibly dispersed the crowds, resulting in injuries and arrests.
ARMENIA
Throughout December, travelers should continue to monitor developments and follow all official directives following an amendment of the current martial law. The government announced the easing of several restrictions beginning December 3 and until further notice, which includes lifting the ban on protests, removing a special regime around entering and exiting the country, and easing restrictions on local media publications. Martial law was imposed in the country on September 27 following an escalation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and remains in effect despite the announcement.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming weeks should continue to avoid further anti-government gatherings due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrations have been taking place to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, following a November deal to end fighting with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. Pashinyan has refused to step down, triggering further protests and calls for a nationwide disobedience campaign by the opposition. While most such gatherings have passed off peacefully, dozens of protesters were detained on December 8. Security forces occasionally use heavy-handed tactics against demonstrators. Travelers should continue to abide by ongoing martial law provisions, despite the recent easing of related restrictions.
AZERBAIJAN
Travelers in Azerbaijan should monitor developments and abide by official directives following the government’s decision to lift a state of martial law. Authorities imposed martial law on September 27 following the outbreak of the conflict with Armenia over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh. All related restrictions, including a curfew from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time, will be lifted from 12:01 AM local time on December 12. The curfew was in place in Baku, as well as areas in Absheron, Aran, Ganja-Qazakh and Yukhari-Karabakh rayons; however, travelers should continue to abide by official COVID-19 restrictions.
BELGIUM
Travelers in Belgium should continue to abide by official directives following the tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. An ongoing curfew in Brussels and Wallonia region between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM local time has been extended until at least January 15. A curfew between 12:01 AM and 5:00 AM is currently in place for the rest of the country.
Travelers in Brussels on December 11 should plan journeys bypassing a march by health care workers. Activists will gather at 5:00 PM local time at Arts-Loi/Kunst-Wet Metro Station before marching along Rue de la Loi-Wetstraat to denounce perceived attacks on the public health system, pay, and working conditions.
Travelers in Brussels on December 13 should plan journeys bypassing a protest organized by an anti-capitalist group. Activists will gather at 4:00 PM local time at Mont des Arts to denounce perceived infringements on the social security system.
BULGARIA
Travelers in central oblasts in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for potential weather-related disruption. The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) has issued a Yellow Alert (middle on a fivetier scale) for forecast heavy rain in the Veliko Tarnovo, Gabrovo, Lovech, Targovishte, Stara Zagora, Plovdiv, Yambol, Haskovo, Kurdjali, and Smolyan oblasts until at least December 12. Such conditions could lead to flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas near streams or rivers.
DENMARK
Travelers in Denmark should continue to abide by official directives following the tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities imposed new measures in Copenhagen and 37 other municipalities until at least January 3. Such measures will be extended to another 31 municipalities from 4:00 PM local time on December 11. These include the closure of schools, restaurants and entertainment venues. Travel between regions remains permitted.
FRANCE
Travelers on essential travel to France should continue to abide by measures related to current COVID-19-related lockdown. The restrictions will start to gradually ease from December 15 when movements nationwide will resume; however, a night-time curfew will be in place between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM local time until further notice. The curfew will not impact domestic train journeys. A State of Health Emergency remains in place until at least February 16, 2021. All public gatherings are banned.
Travelers in France over the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over controversial national security legislation, due to the risk of local unrest. The largest demonstrations are likely to be held on Saturdays, but sporadic gatherings will also take place on other days. In the immediate term, related rallies are due to take place across the country on December 12. Most such events cause limited disruption and pass off without major incident; however, precedents indicate that clashes between security forces and protesters, including hardline ultra-leftist elements, are more likely to occur in major urban centers, particularly Paris.
Travelers in Paris on December 14 should plan journeys bypassing a protest organized by the UMIH and GNI industry groups. Activists will gather at 1:00 PM local time on Esplanade des Invalides to denounce restrictions on the hospitality sector amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
GERMANY
Through December 28, travelers in Saxony should abide by official directives following the imposition of new restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ten out of 13 counties in the state so far have recorded more than 200 new infections per 100,000 inhabitants per week. In these counties, residents are only allowed to leave their accommodation for essential purposes.
Travelers in urban centers on December 12 should avoid protests organized by the right-wing Querdenken (Lateral Thinking) movement due to the risk of unrest. The group has called for a “nationwide mobilization” to denounce COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities in Frankfurt, Dresden, and Erfurt have pre-emptively banned any related rallies, as well as deployed additional police officers and crowd-dispersal measures in their city centers. Despite this, both protesters and counter-demonstrators are liable to move forward with planned events. Previous protests by the Querdenken have notably resulted in violations of COVID-19 restrictions and violence, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
SPAIN
Travelers in Madrid and Barcelona should bypass planned protests in the coming hours to minimize inconvenience. Gatherings will also take place in Almeria, Cordoba, Grenada, Malaga and Seville among other urban centers. They have been organized by the ‘Red Alert’ movement to denounce current COVID-19 restrictions which severely affect the events and entertainment industry. The gatherings are likely to pass off peacefully, but travelers should expect local disruption.
UKRAINE
Travelers in Ukraine should continue to abide by official directives following the tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. On December 9, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced the imposition of nationwide lockdown restrictions from January 8 to 24. Only grocery stores, pharmacies (including veterinary pharmacies), financial institutions, transport hubs, hotels, post offices, gas stations, and hair and beauty salons will be permitted to operate. Restrictions include a ban on mass gatherings. The nationwide adaptive quarantine has also been extended until February 28.
UNITED KINGDOM
On December 14, 17 and 18, passengers transiting London Heathrow Airport (LHR) should anticipate disruption and reconfirm flight schedules during a planned strike by airport employees. Ground staff will observe a 24-hour walkout on each strike day over proposed pay cuts. Airport authorities have announced that the airport will remain open and operational on strike days.
From December 24 through January 3, travelers planning rail travel to or from London should account for disruption at Kings Cross Station due to maintenance work. No trains will run via the station on December 25-30, though replacement bus services will be available. Services will also operate on reduced schedules on December 24, as well as December 31 through January 3.
Travelers in the UK should monitor developments and abide by all government guidelines related to the country’s withdrawal from the EU. Following the end of the transition period on December 31, new entry and exit restrictions will come into effect from January 1, 2021. These changes are expected to increase border-crossing delays due to stricter document-checking procedures and will impact the requirements of EU citizens relocating in the UK. Travelers in the EU should remain apprised of wider policy adjustments, including changes to mobile phone services and travel insurance policies, as well as access to the National Health Service (NHS).
