US Issues Travel Warning for Bangladesh Amid Civil Unrest

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The United States has advised its citizens against travelling to Bangladesh and has permitted the voluntary departure of non-emergency government employees and their families due to the ongoing civil unrest in the South Asian nation.


This development follows a recent travel advisory issued by the US, urging Americans to reconsider any travel plans to Bangladesh amid the escalating turmoil.


In response to the unrest, Bangladeshi authorities have implemented a stringent curfew nationwide. Military personnel are patrolling parts of the capital in an attempt to restore order following several days of violent clashes over government job allocations, which have resulted in more than 40 fatalities and hundreds of injuries.



The US Department of State has elevated the Travel Advisory Level for Bangladesh to Level 4, categorised as 'Do Not Travel.'


“Do not travel to Bangladesh due to civil unrest, crime, and terrorism,” the State Department announced. It further stated, “The department has allowed for the voluntary departure of non-emergency US government employees and family members.” 



The advisory detailed the situation: “The Government of Bangladesh has declared a curfew throughout the country, mandating that all individuals remain indoors. The Bangladeshi Army has been deployed nationwide to support the police forces. Telecommunications have been disrupted in Dhaka and other regions. Due to the prevailing security conditions, there might be delays in the provision of routine consular services.”


The State Department highlighted that crimes such as muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking are prevalent in Bangladesh's major cities. However, there is no indication that foreigners are specifically targeted based on their nationality. These criminal activities are typically situational, dependent on time and location.


The advisory warned that attacks can occur without notice, with terrorists potentially targeting public places including tourist sites, transportation hubs, markets, shopping centres, restaurants, places of worship, educational institutions, and government buildings.



Given the security concerns, US Embassy personnel in Bangladesh face certain movement and travel restrictions. The US government’s ability to provide emergency services to its citizens in Bangladesh may be hindered due to these travel restrictions, inadequate infrastructure, and limited local emergency response resources.


US nationals are advised to take specific precautions, such as avoiding demonstrations and political gatherings, keeping abreast of local media for breaking news, and being ready to alter their plans if necessary. 


“Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Move to a safe area and report any criminal incident to local authorities. Enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program to receive alerts, including updates on consular services, to ensure you can be located easily in an emergency,” the State Department recommended.


This comprehensive advisory underscores the heightened risks for US citizens in Bangladesh and stresses the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential threats.

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