SafeAbroad analysts have assessed the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics to be a moderate risk at this time. With 10,500 athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees competing across 41 venues, the Games promise to attract a massive audience, with an estimated 15 million visitors expected in Paris alone. Security concerns for travelers encompass a heightened risk of terrorism, geopolitical conflicts, and local tensions.
On March 24, the French government raised the country’s terror alert warning to its highest level after the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the Russian concert hall attack in a Moscow suburb on March 22. France was already increasing security measures in preparation to host the Paris Olympics and Paralympics this year, which are expected to draw millions of visitors to the country during July and August.
SafeAbroad analysts have assessed the current dispute between the South American countries of Guyana and Venezuela over the territory of Essequibo. While Venezuela is posturing its military on the Essequibo borders, SafeAbroad analysts have predicted that the outbreak of war is unlikely.
On January 8, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency following the escape of the country’s most dangerous drug lord from prison and an increase in associated unrest nationwide, including amongst penitentiaries. The state of emergency will last for 60 days. The military will be deployed to combat criminal groups responsible for spreading violence, a curfew has been established, and the right to assembly has been paused. Law enforcement officials from the United States have been sent to Ecuador to collaborate with the government to prevent the growth of transnational criminal organizations in light of José Adolfo Macías Villamar’s escape.
• Madrid, Spain: Protest Advisory | On February 21, large demonstrations across Madrid may block major highways and roads. Demonstrators are protesting in response to similar actions across Europe against EU farming policies. Plan alternative means of transportation to avoid traveling near demonstration sites.
• Guayaquil, Ecuador: Weather Advisory | Over the coming days, Guayaquil will likely experience residual effects from recent heavy rain. Debris from flooding, downed power lines, and residual floods are likely to present hazards. Expect travel delays, practice enhanced situational awareness, and monitor local news.
• Newtown, Australia: Protest Advisory | On February 18, LGBTQIA+ activists in Australia will gather to raise awareness on issues facing their community. The event is planned at Pride Square at 2:00 PM. Travelers should expect delays surrounding the protest venue.
• Multiple Countries: Weather Advisory | Through at least February 12, weather alerts for Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia have been issued. Thunderstorms carrying heavy rain, wind, and hail are expected to affect the area. Be aware of potential flash floods, seek shelter and high ground as needed, and monitor weather reports.
• Nationwide, Portugal: Protest Advisory | Protests around new EU agricultural policies are expected to continue in the coming days. Recent roadblockades have been lifted, but disruptions are expected to persist. Plan for travel delays.
• Valparaiso, Chile: Disaster Advisory | Wildfires are expected to continue in Valparaiso in the coming days. The highest level of alert (red) has been issued by the National Disaster Prevention and Response Service, prompting evacuations and curfews. Expect traffic delays and heed evacuation orders. Monitor local media for evacuation notices and air quality alerts.
• Waitangi, New Zealand: Protest Advisory | Demonstrations are likely during the National Waitangi Day celebration from February 3–6. Roughly 60,000 people are expected to attend the main events, and anti-government protests are scheduled during the celebrations. Maintain situational awareness and avoid protests.
• Nationwide, Senegal: Protest Advisory | Protests stemming from the indefinite suspension of the February 25 presidential election are likely across Senegal in the coming days. Expect heightened security and avoid large public gatherings.
On December 21, a mass shooter opened fire at the Faculty of Arts building of Charles University in central Prague, Czech Republic, killing 15 and wounding 25. Three foreign nationals were injured in the attack — two from the United Arab Emirates and one from the Netherlands. At the time of this writing, there is no indication that any American travelers were among the casualties. Expect an increased prevalence of demonstrations, such as vigils for victims, related to the shooting and heightened security on the Charles University campus and in the surrounding areas in the wake of the shooting.
On January 11 at approximately 6:42 AM, a man attacked and wounded six people with a homemade, bladed weapon at Gare du Nord train station in Paris, leaving one with serious injuries. Off-duty police officers neutralized the threat within a minute of the attack, shooting the assailant three times and leaving him in critical condition.
On February 10, U.S. State department urged any U.S. citizens located in Ukraine to leave the country while commercial and private means are still available. The announcement comes in response to the mounting risk of Russian invasion. It is unlikely that U.S. troops will be dispatched to evacuate stranded citizens should the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalate.
4 August 2021 will mark the one-year anniversary of the 2020 Beirut Port Explosion, and commemorative ceremonies have been planned at the Port of Beirut. Activists have also planned protests demanding justice for those affected, and accountability from those at fault. There will likely be heightened security due to the potential for unrest.
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