Nationwide Demonstrations

August 4, 2008

To: All American Citizens
From: American Citizens Services Unit, Consular Section

The U.S. Embassy in Tegucigalpa alerts American citizens residing in and traveling to Honduras that various groups are planning a series of national protests on August 5, 2008.

Protesters would likely block roads within and between cities and attempt to interrupt normal business and traffic.  This could potentially result in confrontations with the police.

If the protests occur, the Embassy strongly recommends U.S. citizens not try to pass roadblocks, as there have been incidents of violence in the past.  U.S. citizens should avoid travel in affected areas.

Honduras has experienced an increase in the frequency of these types of protests in recent months, and the Embassy will continue to keep citizens informed of planned large-scale demonstrations.  However, protests can occur without warning; U.S. citizens should monitor the situation via media sources, including TV and radio, and avoid large gatherings.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet website at http://travel.state.gov where the current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution, can be found.

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Americans living or traveling in Honduras are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Honduras.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

The U.S. Embassy is located on Avenida La Paz in Tegucigalpa; telephone (504) 238 5114, after hours telephone (504) 236 8497; Consular Section fax (504) 238 4357; E-mail: usahonduras@state.gov Web page: http://honduras.usembassy.gov