Interenational Safety and Security is reaching out given the conflict in Ukraine and ongoing tensions in Europe. We are closely monitoring the situation both in Ukraine and Europe in general. We will continue to do so and share guidance as appropriate. Your safety remains our number one priority. For now, we encourage you to continue your academic and daily life as you have been doing. Here are some tips to consider:
- Stay in contact with family and friends. Events in Ukraine are being widely reported, so they will be interested in your experiences.
- Follow international events using local sources and understand potential impacts to you and the host country.
- The university strongly discourages travel east of Germany, Czechia, and Austria for the foreseeable future.
- Register all travel (including weekend trips) with the U.S. Department of State to receive relevant alerts and advisories. https://Step.state.gov
- All travelers, regardless of nationality, can sign up for U.S. embassy alerts. Family and friends at home can also register without travel plans.
- Communicate with on-site staff before any travel to share your itinerary and discuss advice.
- Avoid all demonstrations or political gatherings, regardless of the subject, and maintain a low profile.
- Practice self-care. Remain in contact with your support network (family, friends, academic staff), and take advantage of resources from your program and Gallagher International Insurance.
Please share this email with your family and friends. We encourage you to connect with on-site staff as an immediate source of information and assistance. If you need to contact International Safety and Security, you can reach Rachael and me at safetyabroad@illinois.edu. In the event of an emergency, please contact the UIPD at 217-333-1216 and they will connect you with us.