Europe
- France: Protest Advisory | A nationwide strike on October 2 called by France’s inter-union coalition will create widespread disruptions. Demonstrators oppose the government’s austerity program that will implement budget cuts (including a plan to eliminate 3,000 civil service jobs), higher medical deductibles, unemployment/insurance reforms, and the pension age at 64, with notable marches taking place in majors squares, transport hubs, and near government offices in Paris. Expect major disruptions to public transport and limited public services (schools, hospitals) within the Île-de-France region. Prior demonstrations on September 18 drew hundreds of thousands and saw scattered clashes, leading to an increased security presence. SafeAbroad travelers should avoid protest confirm service statuses, and monitor local media for developments.
- Rome, Italy: Protest Advisory | Pro-Palestine protests will occur across Italy on October 4. On September 22, tens of thousands of people took to the streets across Italy to protest in support of Palestine. Milan and Rome saw the biggest crowds and tensions spilled over around the central station in Milan where some 60 police injuries were reported. At least 20,000 protesters turned out at Termini station in Rome. These protests were coordinated by multiple trade unions. It is highly likely the protesters will block roadways, disrupt railway transportation, and engage in clashes with police. SafeAbroad travelers are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations. If traveling, expect traffic and railway delays. Allot extra time for any potential journeys.
- Greece: Travel Advisory | Greece’s largest unions have announced a nationwide strike on October 1 in protest of a draft labor bill which extends daily shifts to upwards of 13 hours. The 24-hour walkout will cause disruption transportation including all ferries, taxis in Attica, as well as Athens public transport (metro, bus, trolley). Some hospital staff, teachers, and retail workers will also participate with rallies planned in Athens (Klafthmonos Square) and other city centers. If demands aren’t met, demonstrators will likely continue the strike. SafeAbroad travelers should plan for transportation and public service disruptions nationwide, confirm ferry and transit schedules in advance, and allow extra time in journeys to navigate shutdowns.
Americas
- Lima, Peru: Protest Advisory | On October 2, protesters will gather at Plaza Dos De Mayo at 4:00 PM to oppose and call attention to government corruption. Similar protests surrounding the issue of government corruption have taken place in the capital, Lima, over the past two consecutive weekends and have resulted in clashes with police and injuries. The demonstration will likely attract large crowds and prompt heightened security measures. Travelers are advised to avoid the protest and monitor local media for updates.
- São Pualo, Brazil: Health Advisory | Healthcare professionals will initiate a 48 hour strike from October 1 to 2 in São Paulo. The professionals are voicing anger over the government’s failure to compensate them and to actively participate in negotiations. Travelers are advised to seek medical care from hospitals and other emergency offices during this period. They should also check with their providers to see if they are affected.
- Ecuador: Security Advisory | Expect heightened security measures to persist over the coming weeks. Multiple violent protests led to the implementation of a state of emergency across seven provinces in Ecuador. Protests remain marked by violence; a clash between protesters and the police in Quito on Sunday October 28 killed one more and injured others. Travelers are advised to avoid protests and to monitor the local news for updates.
Asia & Pacific
- Vietnam: Weather Advisory | Expect continued disruptions from Typhoon Bualoi through October 1 in Northern and Central Vietnam. The storm made landfall on the night of September 28, flooding roads and damaging infrastructure. Bualoi has weakened since landfall but will bring heavy rain over the following days, creating the possibility of further flooding and landslides. Travelers are advised to monitor local directives and to avoid unnecessary travel to affected regions.
- Mumbai, India: Travel Advisory | Ola and Uber drivers in Mumbai will strike on 30 September creating major ride-hailing service disruptions. Cab aggregator drivers affiliated with Ola and Uber in Mumbai will demonstrate to demand fare increases and regulatory changes. Ride-hailing availability will be significantly reduced across the city, including routes to and from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Prolonged action could push more demand onto taxis, buses, and metro services, creating wider transport congestion. A moderate sized protest by drivers will correspond with the strike, gathering at Azad Maidan the same day.
- China: Security Advisory | China’s National Day will bring widespread disruptions across China amid celebrations from October 1 -8. National Day celebrates the establishment of the People’s Republic of China; it is celebrated with fireworks, concerts, and other cultural events throughout the country. Travel disruptions are expected as public areas are cordoned off for events; heightened security will also be present during the celebrations. Travelers are advised to maintain awareness in large crowds and to secure personal belongings.
Africa & Middle East
- South Africa, Africa: Protest Advisory | The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) will lead a nationwide protest on October 7. Over 3,000 people will protest corporate layoffs, weak economic growth, and the rising cost of living. Marches will take place in cities throughout South Africa. Heightened police presence and traffic disruption are expected. SafeAbroad travelers are advised to avoid protests and to plan alternate routes of travel.
- Uganda: Protest Advisory | Civil servants will launch an indefinite nationwide strike across Uganda on October 1. The Uganda Local Government Workers Union (ULGWU) has called for a nationwide walkout over the government’s failure to implement phased salary increases which were promised under the 2018 Collective Bargaining Agreement. This demonstration will slow or suspend functions in ministries, local government offices, schools, and public services. Pressure on services is already elevated as the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) has been on strike since September 15 over similar grievances. Travelers should prepare for delays to public services.
- Morocco: Protest Advisory | Expect further anti-government protests in the coming weeks. There have been multiple recent demonstrations against the governments prioritization of spending; protesters allege the government is spending too much on building stadiums for the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup and not on essential services such as healthcare. Over 100 people were reportedly arrested at protests over this last weekend. Travelers are advised to avoid protests and to not engage with the protesters.
