Warden messages
Demonstrations
January 16, 2009
This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the continuing possibility of protests and demonstrations for the next five days. The protests are expected in the vicinity of the Parliament building downtown. According to Bulgarian National Radio, a January 16 demonstration drew about 500 peaceful protesters. The police presence downtown is larger than normal though less than previous days.
Spontaneous demonstrations take place in Bulgaria from time to time in response to world events or local developments. We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possible escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website the U.S. Department of State's, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website www.travel.state.gov , where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found. The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html, which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
The U.S. Embassy can be reached at tel.: (+359 2) 937-5100; fax (+359 2) 937-5122; web site: http://bulgaria.usembassy.gov/