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
HURRICANE IOTA
Travelers in Honduras, Nicaragua, and the islands of San Andres and Providencia in Colombia should defer travel to areas in the path of Hurricane Iota. The Category 1 storm (lowest on a five-tier scale) is forecast to strengthen into a Category 3 Hurricane as it moves west across the Caribbean. It is expected to reach the coasts of Nicaragua and northeastern Honduras on November 16. The weather system is expected to weaken as it moves inland on November 17-18.
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 in the coming hours should exercise caution and anticipate further demonstrations over issues involving the November 3 General Election and police reform. There are persistent underlying risks associated with such events due to the emotive nature of the issues and the potential presence of firearms, counter-demonstrators and extremist individuals. Travelers near protest venues should anticipate disruption and possible clashes between protesters, counter-demonstrators, and police. 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 California continue to reconfirm the status of routes and follow official directives amid multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted a State of Emergency and the closure of several major routes. Mandatory Evacuation Orders have also been issued for multiple counties. At least 32 people have so far been killed, and more than 300,000 others evacuated. While some of the fires have been largely contained, residual disruption remains possible in affected areas.
COLORADO
Travelers in Colorado should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption due to ongoing wildfires. The two remaining fires, the Cameron Peak and East Troublesome fires, have become the first and second largest in the state’s history. They have also prompted the closure of several major roadways in Larimer and Grand counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
INDIANA
On November 16, travelers in Gary, IN should reconfirm the status of roads amid an ongoing fire. The nearby West 4th Avenue, which leads to Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY), has been closed. Flights at the airport may also be disrupted due to the fire.
WYOMING
Travelers in Wyoming should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption due to multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted the closure of several major roads, as well as mandatory Evacuation Orders and PreEvacuation Notices for multiple counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
BOLIVIA
Travelers in Bolivia over the coming days should continue to anticipate and avoid further gatherings linked to the results of the October 18 General Election. Opponents of the victorious Movement for Socialism (MAS) party have staged protests against the results. Meanwhile, ousted former president Evo Morales (in office 2006-19) returned to the country from exile in neighboring Argentina on November 9. Pro-and anti-MAS gatherings are likely to continue in the coming days. Such events are liable to disrupt travel and may result in confrontations between rival groups, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
ECUADOR
On November 16, travelers in Quito should avoid all demonstrations associated with a nationwide movement by the healthcare workers union. Activists plan to gather at 3:00 PM local time at Parque del Arbolito before marching to the historic city center. The union is calling for an improvement in working conditions for healthcare workers in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
FRENCH GUIANA
Travelers in the Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni commune over the coming days should plan journeys accounting for possible further roadblocks by students over a dispute with local transport companies. On November 12, protesters blocked the D9 Motorway in several locations, including around the towns of Mana and Charvein. Although the demonstrations passed off peacefully, further related protests are likely and should be avoided as a precaution.
HAITI
On November 18, travelers in Haiti should anticipate disruption and avoid planned demonstrations due to the risk of unrest. The National Union of Haitian Normaliens (UNNOH) is calling for the mobilization in protest of various issues, including poverty, unemployment and rampant kidnapping. Protests in Haiti commonly involve roadblocks consisting of burning objects, as well as live gunfire, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
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 during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta has prompted the closure of the airport until at least November 25. The airport will still accept humanitarian aid flights during the closure.
MEXICO
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers, particularly Mexico City, should plan journeys accounting for disruption during anti-government demonstrations. The National Anti-AMLO Front group, which is calling for President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s resignation, plan to stage a major rally in Mexico City on November 21. Related gatherings may also take place in the interim and may disrupt travel. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes prior to departure.
PERU
On November 16, travelers in Lima should anticipate disruption and avoid planned demonstrations at 3:00 PM local time starting at Plaza San Martin. Demonstrators have called for a peaceful march to demand that the Congress create a new constitution. The country is facing a political crisis following the resignation of interim President Manuel Merino, who had taken over after the removal of President Martin Vizcarra.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
BAHRAIN
Travelers in Bahrain should anticipate disruption to government services until November 15 during the mourning period for Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman al-Khalifa, who died on November 11. Authorities have declared a oneweek mourning period, during which government offices will be closed for three days from November 12. Travelers should plan for associated disruption and reconfirm appointments during this period.
BURKINA FASO
Travelers in Burkina Faso should monitor developments and avoid all gatherings related to the November 22 Presidential and Legislative Elections. Thirteen candidates will be competing in the first round Presidential Election. Should no candidate obtain an absolute majority, a run-off election will take place within 15 days of the release of the final results of the first round. The threat of militant attacks around the vote is elevated, as exemplified by an attack on November 8 against a government official in Goudebo. While significant social unrest is not expected around the vote, travelers should avoid all political gatherings as a precaution.
At least 14 soldiers were killed, and eight injured, on November 11 after they were ambushed near the village of Beldiabe. Earlier, on November 2, another eight people were killed in an attack on a mining site near Madoudji. These incidents notably follow the October 14 killing of at least 20 people in the villages of Demniol, Bomboa and Peteguerse. Militant groups maintain a stronghold in the north of the country. They have also, over the past year, expanded their territories in central and eastern areas, significantly increasing the overall risks posed by terrorism. Travelers should ensure they abide by movement restrictions imposed in response to militancy and the COVID-19 pandemic.
CHAD
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)
On November 18, travelers in Kinshasa should plan journeys bypassing a protest in support of former President Joseph Kabila. Participants will march at 9:00 AM local time from the Limete interchange to Boulevard Triomphal. Local disruption and unrest is possible.
COTE D’ IVOIRE
Travelers should minimize movement and abide by curfews imposed in several opposition strongholds. A nightly curfew is in place from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time in Bongouanou, Daoukro, Mbatto, Toumodi, Bonoua, Dabou, Ndouci, Sikensi and Divo. Since August, at least 85 people have been killed in communal clashes and unrest related to the presidential elections. Further such incidents may prompt additional curfews or changes in timings. Travelers should keep abreast of developments.
On November 16, travelers in Cote d’Ivoire should exercise caution and avoid all gatherings over the Presidential Elections. Opposition groups and political youth organizations have called for the resumption of a countrywide civil disobedience campaign. At least 12 people were killed during related unrest on November 9-10.
ETHIOPIA
Throughout November, travelers in Oromia should exercise caution after gunmen killed at least 54 people, reportedly ethnic-Amharas, on November 1 in the West Wollega zone. Several houses were also burned. The attack follows the withdrawal of federal security forces from the area. Authorities have blamed the attack on the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), an armed splinter group of the Oromo Liberation Front political party, but these claims cannot be substantiated. Further attacks are likely, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Ethiopia in the coming days should continue to defer travel to Tigray state amid reports of ongoing military clashes. Those within the state should continue to stand fast until the situation has stabilized and communications are restored. Federal forces have reportedly carried out airstrikes targeting a Tigrayan armed group’s positions and assets across the state, including in Mekelle. Fighting continues to be reported in areas of Tigray bordering Amhara state. Statewide telecommunications services remain blocked, and airspace over Tigray remains closed. Continued clashes are likely between local military groups and federal security forces in all aforementioned areas of Tigray.
GABON
Travelers in Libreville should plan journeys accounting for disruption during the temporary closure of Boulevard Triomphal until November 19 for maintenance works.
IRAQ
Travelers in southern governorates in the coming days should exercise caution and anticipate further disruption caused by adverse weather. The area has seen heavy rainfall since November 10, which has led to flooded roads and facilities. Al-Hartha, al-Qurnah and al-Zubayr districts of Basra City have experienced heavy flooding, exacerbated by deteriorated drainage infrastructure.
ISRAEL
Travelers in Israel in the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid further weekly protests in urban centers. Demonstrations are expected to continue due to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial and the government’s COVID-19 response. Protests demanding Netanyahu’s resignation have occurred on a weekly basis since July. Well-attended protests took place on November 7 at the Prime Minister’s residence in Jerusalem, as well as Habima Square and Rabin Square in Tel Aviv. While these protests passed off peacefully, previous gatherings have been forcibly dispersed by police, with several arrests made. Further demonstrations should be avoided to minimize inconvenience.
LEBANON
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Lebanon amid a tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. A twoweek lockdown will come into effect on November 14 as part of authorities’ efforts to curb the spread of the disease. The lockdown includes a nightly curfew from 5:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time. Public areas such as gyms, shopping malls, beaches, bars and public pools will be closed. In addition, driving vehicles is banned on Sundays. On other days, the odd and even number license plate scheme for road use by vehicles applies.
LIBERIA
On November 16, travelers in Monrovia and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid anti-government demonstrations due to the risk of unrest. The rallies, called by the Council of Patriots activist movement, are linked to persistent political and socio-economic grievances. Scuffles between participants and government supporters are possible, while gatherings may be forcibly dispersed by police. Potential flashpoints in Monrovia include government buildings in the Capitol Hill area, as well as Tubman Boulevard and the University of Liberia campus.
MALI
Travelers in urban centers should expect disruption and avoid all gatherings related to a trade union strike from November 18-20. Labor unions have called for a nationwide strike against a perceived lack of employment rights. While most events are likely to pass off peacefully, local unrest during demonstrations cannot be ruled out.
NIGERIA
Travelers in Lagos beginning July 24 should expect significant travel disruption during planned repair work on the Third Mainland Bridge and plan journeys using alternative routes. The Lagos State Government announced the partial closure of the bridge until January 2021 for maintenance works. Travelers should anticipate increased traffic congestion and a potential surge in crime on congested routes during the closure of the bridge.
Travelers in Delta state over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests linked to communal grievances due to the risk of unrest. On November 12, residents of the Ndokwa West local government area erected roadblocks along the Kwale-Asaba motorway, blocking traffic for several hours. Residents were protesting against authorities’ decision to grant independent administrative status to the nearby town of Beneku. Although no clashes were reported, further related gatherings are liable to be forcibly dispersed by security forces and to cause significant road travel disruption.
SAUDI ARABIA
Travelers should exercise vigilance and minimize time spent around potential targets for attacks following an explosion on November 11 in Jeddah. International media reports indicate that at least two people were injured after an explosive device detonated during an Armistice Day commemorative event at the Non-Muslim Cemetery in the al-Balad area. The event was attended by several foreign diplomats. Investigations are ongoing. While the threat of militancy in Saudi Arabia is latent, the incident highlights the risk of low-level and opportunistic attacks.
SOMALIA
Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) cases have been detected in multiple locations. cVDPV strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are recommended to be fully immunized against polio prior to travel. Polio is a contagious viral illness that causes paralysis and death. The infection is spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person.
At least two people were killed on November 12 when a roadside bomb detonated along 21 October Road in the Waaberi district in Mogadishu. The attack may have been targeting the Commissioner of the Hodan district, who escaped with injuries. The incident highlights the persistent militant threat in the capital, where the travel risks are extreme. Travelers should minimize non-essential travel outside secure premises and liaise with their dedicated security provider for all essential movement.
SOUTH AFRICA
On November 16, travelers in Pretoria should anticipate disruption due to a planned march by various trade unions. Demonstrators from metal works and security sector unions will gather at Church Square at 10:00 AM local time before marching to the National Treasury offices. Participants intend to demonstrate against the non-payment of wage increases. Travelers should plan journeys accounting for local traffic disruption.
SUDAN
Throughout November, travelers in Khartoum and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid further antigovernment protests over socio-economic issues. Protesters gathered over the weekend of October 31-November 1 in Atbara, and previously on October 26 and 29 in Khartoum and other cities, in protest of the latest hike in fuel prices. The protesters are denouncing worsening socio-economic conditions, including bread and fuel shortages and inflation. Police may forcibly disperse demonstrations, which poses incidental risks to bystanders. Travelers should monitor developments and avoid areas experiencing unrest.
UGANDA
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further rallies in support of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party. NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu was recently certified as a Presidential candidate in the 2021 elections. Campaign rallies by Kyagulanyi are under way despite being commonly denied authorization from officials. These events are well attended and often forcefully dispersed by police due to being unauthorized. On November 11, police deployed tear gas, among other measures, in Gulu and Kitgum districts during unauthorized pro- Kyagulanyi rallies.
ZAMBIA
Travelers in Lusaka on November 15 should plan journeys bypassing a rally organized by the opposition United Party for National Development as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Participants will gather from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM local time at the Chilenje South Secondary School. The event has been approved by authorities and is likely to pass off without incident. Nonetheless, there remains a risk of local disturbances and associated traffic disruption in the vicinity.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
CAMBODIA
Travelers should plan journeys in the coming days accounting for possible disruption due to adverse weather conditions. The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has warned of the impact of two weather systems approaching the country. Former tropical storm Etau, now a low-pressure area, will bring heavy rainfall on November 11-12. Severe Tropical Storm Vamco is forecast to pass over Cambodia as a Tropical Depression on November 15. Flooding due to heavy rainfall is possible in low-lying or coastal areas.
CHINA
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to areas in Shanghai and Tianjin where restrictions have been tightened following an increase in COVID-19 cases. The government raised its risk rating to ‘medium’ (middle on a three-tier scale) for Yingqiancun in Shanghai and Hangu Street and Tianjin fishing port in Tianjin. In several cities, travelers who departed from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) are required to present a certificate proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 no more than seven days before their departure and undergo a 14- day quarantine upon arrival. This does not apply to travelers who only transited the airport.
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to Kashgar following an increase in COVID-19 cases and tightened restrictions on outbound travel. Outbound travelers are required to present a certificate proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 no more than seven days before their departure. They may be subject to additional measures upon entering other provinces, including quarantine requirements. Local authorities elsewhere, including in Beijing and Shanghai, have advised their residents to defer non-essential travel to Kashgar. Authorities are liable to announce measures at short notice in the coming weeks.
On November 16, travelers in Hainan Province should continue to plan journeys accounting for residual disruption following the passage of former Typhoon Vamco. The weather system passed south of Hainan Island on November 14 and has weakened into a tropical depression. The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) has lifted a “blue” typhoon warning (lowest on a four-tier scale) that was earlier in place. Nonetheless, heavy rain and strong wind are forecast in southeastern and coastal Hainan, respectively, through November 16. Train and ferries services to and from the province have resumed.
HONG KONG
Travelers in Hong Kong should monitor developments surrounding the disqualification of four opposition members of the Legislative Council on November 11, and the subsequent resignation of 15 opposition lawmakers. The events occurred after the China government passed legislation that allows them to disqualify lawmakers who they feel have committed acts that threaten national security. The frequency and turnout of protests will remain low, particularly amid ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions; however, underlying tensions may continue to prompt small-scale gatherings, which should be avoided as a precaution.
INDIA
On November 16, travelers in Patna should anticipate disruption during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected state government. The event will take place between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM local time at Raj Bhavan in the Rajbansi Nagar area of the city.
Travelers should avoid further protests over new farm laws in the coming weeks. The All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) farmers’ organization plans to hold related demonstrations in Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on November 26-27; however, police have banned all such gatherings. While the AIKSCC has petitioned authorities to permit the demonstrations, the group has also stated that it will proceed with the protests even if the ban remains in place. These are expected to be well-attended amid heightened security presence. Farmers’ groups and opposition parties claim the new laws weaken government support for the agricultural sector.
INDONESIA
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further protests related to remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron. Large demonstrations were held on November 2-4 in several cities, including Jakarta. While rallies in recent days have passed off peacefully, there remains a risk of local unrest during further gatherings. Authorities are likely to implement pre-emptive road closures and traffic diversions near protests.
Travelers in Indonesia over the coming weeks should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rain and flooding. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has forecast that intense rain will affect most parts of the country during November. Such conditions have previously resulted in flooding and landslides. These have affected thousands of people and damaged infrastructure in several areas, including Jakarta. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys with local contacts before setting out.
On November 17, travelers in Jakarta and Bandung are advised to avoid demonstrations against the controversial “Omnibus Law,” due to risk of unrest. In Jakarta, activists will march from the People’s Representative Council to the Ministry of Education and Culture at 10:00 AM local time. At the same time, student groups will gather near International Labor Organization’s offices in PT Menara Thamrin. In Bandung, the protest will be held at Gedung Sate, also at 10:00 AM local time. The events are likely to be well-attended. Authorities may forcibly disperse protesters and implement traffic diversions near protest venues. Additional protests may occur in other urban centers, but these will likely be smaller gatherings.
Travelers in Indonesia over the coming weeks should avoid gatherings linked to the December 9 local elections, as a precaution. Despite COVID-19-related government directives to minimize in-person campaigns, gatherings continue to take place in cities and towns where polling will take place. Such events can be expected to increase in frequency as the elections approach, especially until the end of the campaign period on December 5.
KYRGYZSTAN
Travelers in urban centers should continue to exercise caution, monitor developments, and avoid all gatherings related to Parliamentary and Presidential Elections. On October 22, parliament passed a law delaying the re-run Parliamentary Election until at least June 1, 2021 to permit constitutional reforms to be enacted. The next Presidential Election is currently scheduled for January 10, 2021. Widespread unrest has diminished following the October 15 resignation of former President Sooronbay Jeenbekov. Parliament Speaker Talant Mamytov will maintain the role of interim President until the next election.
LAOS
Through November 17, travelers in central, northern and southern provinces should plan journeys accounting for residual disruption following the passage of former Typhoon Vamco. The weather system has weakened to a lowpressure system after moving over Pakxan early on November 16. Nevertheless, heavy rain and strong winds can be expected across central, northern, and southern provinces until at least November 17. Such conditions may disrupt transportation and communications.
MOLDOVA
Through November 20, travelers in Chisinau and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid protests following the November 15 Presidential Run-off Election. The pro-EU candidate Maia Sandu is projected to win the election with 57% of the vote over 43% for pro-Russia candidate incumbent President Igor Dodon. Their perceived political leanings have been a source of tension and could lead to well-attended gatherings and protests after the official announcement of the results. While any related gatherings are expected to pass off peacefully, such events may cause local disruption.
MONGOLIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Mongolia due to restrictions related to COVID-19. Authorities have imposed a series of internal restrictions until at least 6:00 AM local time on November 17. As part of these measures, the public have been advised to stay home and refrain from non-essential activities and movement. Essential services remain open during this period. All outbound travel options from Ulaanbaatar, including domestic flights, passenger trains and travel via private vehicles, have been temporarily halted.
NEW CALEDONIA
Throughout November, travelers in Noumea and other urban centers in South province should monitor developments on the planned sale of a major nickel plant in Goro. Groups opposed to the sale have stated that they will hold fresh gatherings over the issue and have threatened to block access to the plant, though further details have not been announced. An announcement about the sale is expected in the coming days. On October 30, thousands attended a related rally in Noumea. Precedent suggests that further protests are likely to focus around the New Caledonian Government Complex, the French High Commission, and Hotel de la Province Sud.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to avoid protests by both ruling and opposition parties. Anti-government protests organized by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) are set to continue until January 2021, while the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) can be expected to occasionally stage counter-rallies. Traffic disruption and heightened security measures can be expected around protest locations.
On November 16, travelers in Islamabad and Rawalpindi should anticipate significant traffic disruption due to ongoing protests and roadblocks. Affected routes include the Islamabad Expressway Highway and the Faizabad Metro Overpass in Islamabad, as well as Rawal and Murree roads in Rawalpindi. On November 15, authorities sealed entrances from Rawalpindi to Islamabad in an attempt to prevent a march by the hardline Islamist Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) party. Thousands of protesters nonetheless gathered at Liaquat Bagh and clashed with police. The latter used tear gas on stone-throwing participants. Dozens were injured. Demonstrators then proceeded to the Faizabad Overpass, where they camped overnight.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Through December 1, travelers in Papua New Guinea should continue to monitor developments and avoid any gatherings after the opposition took control of and voted to suspend Parliament on November 12. Parliament will remain suspended through December 1, when a motion of no confidence is likely to be brought against Prime Minister James Marape. While no related protests have yet occurred or been announced, such events remain possible amid the current state of political uncertainty. A potential public service shutdown may also trigger protests. Additional security force personnel may be deployed in Port Moresby ahead of Parliament’s scheduled resumption.
SINGAPORE
Travel to Singapore may proceed, subject to entry restrictions and the establishment of bilateral travel arrangements. ‘Safe Travel’ arrangements are in place with Australia, Brunei, mainland China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Vietnam. The latest such accord was negotiated between Singapore and Hong Kong and will begin on November 22. Further arrangements may follow in the coming weeks. The requirements for travel vary depending on the specific arrangements.
THAILAND
On November 16, travelers in Bangkok should avoid an anti-government protest outside the Government House at 12:00 PM local time. Heightened security and local traffic disruption are expected around the protest venue. Any attempt by protesters to bypass potential roadblocks may prompt police to forcibly disperse the gathering; resulting scuffles would pose incidental risks to bystanders. Travelers are advised to remain abreast of potential changes to the time and location of all demonstrations.
On November 17, travelers in urban centers should continue to monitor developments and avoid all gatherings as a precaution. Pro-royalist demonstrators plan to gather on November 17 at 9:00 AM local time at the Kiakkai intersection near the New Parliament House. Additionally, an anti-government gathering will be held at 3:00 PM local time in the same area. The gatherings will coincide with the start of Parliamentary discussions concerning constitutional charter draft amendments. Large turnouts can therefore be expected. Any attempt by protesters to bypass roadblocks may prompt police to disperse gatherings with force. Any resulting scuffles would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
VIETNAM
Travelers in northern and central provinces should until at least November 16 plan journeys accounting for disruption during the passage of Typhoon Vamco. The weather system is currently forecast to gradually weaken to a tropical storm before making landfall on the coast between Ha Tinh and Thua Thien Hue provinces on the morning of November 15. Strong winds and heavy rain can be expected during Vamco’s passage. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) maintains a ‘Level 3’ disaster risk warning (middle tier on a five-tier scale).
EUROPE
ARMENIA
Travelers in urban centers should avoid further gatherings linked to the recent signing of a peace deal with Azerbaijan, due to the risk of local disruption and unrest. The agreement is related to the conflict over NagornoKarabakh, and travelers should abide by ongoing martial law provisions. On November 11, a well-attended protest took place at Freedom Square in Yerevan, during which participants called for the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Demonstrators also marched towards the National Assembly, resulting in scuffles with security forces.
AUSTRIA
On November 16, travelers in Vienna should avoid the vicinity of Am Tabor 42, where a 220-pound aerial bomb has reportedly been discovered. The bomb is likely to be from WWII. Security forces have evacuated the area. A 328- foot cordon has been established.
AZERBAIJAN
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate large celebratory gatherings in the coming days following the signing of a peace agreement related to Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia. The agreement, brokered by Russia, was signed overnight on November 9-10. Celebratory gatherings have been reported, including in Baku and Ganja. Further large gatherings are likely in the coming days. While these will remain peaceful, associated disruption can be expected. Travelers should avoid all gatherings to minimize inconvenience.
BELARUS
Travelers should continue to exercise caution and avoid all protests calling for the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko, fresh elections, and the release of political prisoners. On November 13, opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya announced a “People’s Tribunal” and encouraged security force members to defect and provide evidence of crimes against civilians. Tsikhanouskaya also stated that the largest demonstration yet will be held on December 20. Large protests continue each Sunday in Minsk and other urban centers. Smaller daily gatherings also continue. Though the demonstrations are peaceful, security forces are likely to disperse gatherings forcibly. Indiscriminate arrests remain possible.
DENMARK
Human infections with mink-associated variant strains of SARS-CoV-2 have been detected. Authorities are working to limit the spread of this variant among minks and humans. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Severe disease is possible. There is no change to preventive advice. Follow usual precautions to prevent infection including paying attention to hygiene, wear a mask in public, wash hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, and keeping a distance of 6 feet with other. Do not travel if you are sick.
FRANCE
Travelers on essential travel to France should abide by measures related to a nationwide lockdown in place until at least December 1 and a State of Health Emergency in place until at least February 16, 2021. Only essential movement for proven work-related reasons, health reasons or emergencies is allowed, with a mandatory certificate. All public gatherings are banned. Travelers are advised to reconfirm region- and city-specific measures as there is a potential for sudden changes in local restrictions and containment measures.
Travelers in France on November 16-21 should expect disruption during demonstrations around the second anniversary of the Yellow Vests (‘Gilets Jaunes’) movement and plan journeys accordingly. Despite a nationwide lockdown and other COVID-19-related restrictions, participants intend to gather across the country on November 17 to mark the specific anniversary. Protests are allowed under the current State of Emergency; details of the gatherings will be confirmed at the last minute. Scheduled and unplanned rallies may cause significant traffic disruption, and there is a risk of local unrest. Any unruly gatherings will be forcibly dispersed by police.
GEORGIA
On November 17-18 and 21, travelers in Tbilisi should plan journeys bypassing anti-government protests as a precaution and to minimize delays. The opposition European Georgia party has organized two upcoming demonstrations to denounce the results of the October 31 Parliamentary Elections. The first of these is intended to coincide with the visit of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Tbilisi on November 17-18, while the second will be held during the second round of voting on November 21. Exact details have not been released for either event; however, they are likely to focus on the Parliament building.
GREECE
Travelers on essential travel in Greece should abide by COVID-19-related restrictions. A nationwide lockdown is ongoing until at least November 30. Additionally, from November 13, a curfew will be observed from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time. Only essential movement, such as for work purposes, is allowed during curfew hours. All movement requires permission from authorities.
Travelers in the vicinity of Vathy Refugee Camp on Samos Island should expect heightened security in the coming days following recent fires and ongoing related security investigations. A fire broke out on November 11, leaving at least 300 people homeless. The following day, another part of the camp caught fire. The cause of the fires remains unclear, but police are investigating arson, which could further limit movement in the surrounding areas. Although no protests have occurred after these fires, travelers should exercise caution due to the credible risk of demonstrations by migrants and the local population.
ITALY
On November 19, travelers in Rome should plan journeys bypassing a rally organized by the National Association of Italian Municipalities. Protesters are gathering at 12:00 PM local time at Palazzo Chigi to request the cancellation of municipal debts and government support amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
POLAND
Through November 18, travelers in urban centers should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over a controversial court ruling restricting abortion rights, due to the risk of unrest. On November 18, activists will gather at 6:00 PM local time at Parliament in Warsaw. Previous demonstrations have attracted large turnouts, with participants often blocking key roads and clashing with rival protesters. Weekly protests are usually held on Mondays. Police may forcibly disperse further rallies, particularly given an ongoing COVID-19-related ban on gatherings of more than five people.
SPAIN
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over COVID-19-related restrictions, due to the risk of local unrest. Disruptive demonstrations have intensified since October 9 following the announcement of tighter restrictions. On November 7, hundreds of anti-vaccine and antilockdown demonstrators gathered in Madrid. At least 12 were injured in clashes between protesters and police. Announcements of additional restrictions are likely to trigger further discontent and unrest.
UNITED KINGDOM
On November 21-22 and December 25-30, rail travelers in London should plan journeys accounting for the closure of the Kings Cross railway station due to maintenance work. No trains will run via the station during this time, though replacement bus services will be available.
Travelers in the UK should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions after the government reintroduced a lockdown in England until at least December 2. The measure entails advice to stay at home except for specific purposes and restrictions on social gatherings and business activities. Separate regulations apply to Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
