FIJI
In the aftermath of the Dec. 5 military coup, a state of emergency remains in effect throughout the islands. Currently the situation is calm, but military checkpoints remain in place in major population centers including Suva, Nadi and Lautoka, and security could deteriorate with little warning, especially in Suva.
INDIA
Communal violence can erupt almost anywhere in India given the right provocation. In the tech-savvy city of Bangalore, Hindu-Muslim riots occurred Jan. 19 and 21, first when thousands of Muslims protested the hanging of Iraq’s Saddam Hussein, clashing with police, ransacking Hindu-owned shops and burning cars. Then, two days later, a Hindu nationalist party rally turned into a riot of attacks on Muslim shops, stoning of cars and clashes with police.
MEXICO
The U.S. State Department has downgraded its advisory on travel to Oaxaca, urging Americans to use caution when visiting the city rather than stay away. The situation remains unsettled but is largely back to normal. Demonstrations could recur and should be avoided. Mexican law forbids political activities by foreigners, and participating in demonstrations could result in arrest or deportation.
In other news, the military confiscated all police weapons in Tijuana Jan. 5 because of allegations of collusion with drug traffickers. As a way to deter crime, the department has now issued slingshots and ball bearings to police who patrol areas frequented by tourists. State police remain armed, however, and some local police patrol alongside them.
UNITED KINGDOM
British Airways’ cabin crews will hold a three-day strike from 12:01 a.m. Jan. 29 to 11:59 p.m. Jan. 31 after talks with management broke down. The walkout could totally disrupt the airline’s services, and further strikes are planned for the same three days in the two subsequent weeks if the issues are not resolved.
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Compiled from various news services and travel sources. For the latest on world conditions, check the State Department’s automated service at 888-407-4747; fax 202-647-3000; travel.state.gov.
