The Department of State issued a Worldwide Caution on October 19th. The full text reads:
Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution. U.S. citizens should:
Worldwide Cautions provide U.S. citizens with general information regarding terrorist activities, political violence, and criminal activity that occur abroad, as well as specific recommendations on how to prepare for possible contingencies, receive information on breaking security events and ensure that travelers can be contacted in an emergency.
At this time, the University of Illinois is not changing travel guidance due to the Worldwide Caution.
- The Worldwide Caution encourages travelers to “exercise increased caution.” This is the same designation as Travel Advisory Level 2, which is applied to many countries around the world.
- Department of States describes “exercise increased caution” as: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. … Conditions in any country may change at any time.
- Finally, as noted above, Worldwide Cautions are designed to convey general information about risks that may be encountered while abroad. Specific conditions and risks will vary by region and country. Consequently, the university strongly recommends enrolling in STEP to receive country-specific information.
We encourage travelers to review our previous blog on Protest Safety Tips and our general update regarding Fall 2023 Study Abroad. More resources can be found here.
International Safety and Security is available 24/7 to assist all University of Illinois students abroad. For emergencies contact us through UIPD at +1 (217) 333-1216. For routine matters, please e-mail us at safetyabroad@illinois.edu.