The Week Ahead: February 12, 2024

Date

Europe
  • 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. 
  • Nationwide, France: Protest Advisory | From February 15–19, rail network controllers will strike across France. Expect delays and potential protests near transportation hubs throughout the country. Monitor local media and avoid traveling near demonstrations or picket lines.
  • Nationwide, Italy: Protest Advisory | On February 12, union rail workers will strike from 9 AM to 5 PM nationwide. Most rail travel is expected to be impacted. Travelers should monitor local media and expect travel disruptions through the evening.
  • Munich, Germany: Protest Advisory | From February 17–19 protestors will gather outside the Munich Security Conference at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich, Bavaria to speak out against ongoing global conflicts. Travelers should account for travel disruptions and avoid any violent demonstrations should tensions rise.
  • Athens, Greece: Protest Advisory | On February 12 and 15, protests against the legalization of private universities in Greece will take place. Demonstrations are expected to take place at educational institutions throughout the city, as well as the Ministry of Education.
  • Nationwide, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Health Advisory |  On February 10, health officials put out warnings regarding an outbreak of Measles. The primary outbreak areas have been reported in Sarajevo, Tuzla, Una-Sana, and Zenica-Doboj. Travelers should receive a vaccination and, if not vaccinated, avoid outbreak areas.
Americas
  • 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. 
  • Salvador, Brazil: Travel Advisory | From February 9–17 Carnival takes place in Brazil, with a major event in Salvador ending on February 14. Travel delays, business closures, and increased security are likely. Assaults, pickpocketing, and theft are also more likely during this time at celebration sites.
  • Nationwide, Peru: Weather Advisory | Through February 13, heavy rains will occur across Peru, and may result in flash floods and landslides. Monitor weather reports and seek high ground as needed. Expect travel delays and confirm flights. 
  • Nationwide, Mexico: Protest Advisory | On February 18, activists will march in multiple major Mexican cities including Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, Queretaro, and other cities nationwide. Travelers should expect increased security presence and should plan for additional travel time due to traffic disruptions.
Asia & Pacific
  • 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.
  • Hyderabad, India: Protest Advisory | On February 16, auto-rickshaw drivers in Hyderabad, Telangana plan to strike against India’s new criminal code which increases punishments for drivers responsible for hit-and-runs. Travelers should plan alternate travel arrangements.
  • New Delhi, India: Protest Advisory | On February 13, farmers in New Delhi will protest for a law guaranteeing a minimum support price. An additional strike will take place on February 16 until 4:00 PM. Travelers should expect a heightened police presence and travel delays around demonstrations.  
  • Nationwide, Thailand: Weather Advisory | Through February 13, thunderstorms will occur across most of Thailand, bringing large waves to the coast. Flooding is possible in lowlands and coastal areas. Seek high ground and monitor local weather reports.
Africa & Middle East
  • 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, Senegal: Protest Advisory | On February 13, demonstrations against the delay of elections will continue. Restrictions have been placed on protests amidst growing unrest. Travelers should avoid all demonstrations and protests, follow the instructions of local authorities, and monitor local media regarding regulations.
  • Accra, Ghana: Protest Advisory | On February 13, protesters will demonstrate against an added 15% VAT tax on electricity. Protesters will gather at Kwame Nkrumah Circle and march to Independence Square. Public transportation drivers intend to participate. Plan journeys around protests and expect travel delays. 
  • Abuja, Nigeria: Protest Advisory | On February 14 at 9:00 AM, protestors will gather in front of the Federal High Court to call for the release of a human rights activist. Travelers should avoid all demonstrations and protests, plan for alternate travel routes, and monitor local media. 

Recent
Advisories

On November 22, South Africa declared foodborne illness a national disaster with 900 cases and 20 fatalities since September.

On November 22, South Africa declared foodborne illness a national disaster after 900 cases and over 20 deaths since September. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, headache, nausea, and vomiting. The specific cause of the illness remains unknown. Authorities have imposed stricter food handling practices, food safety guidelines, and inspections.

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