News Watch

News Watch

Unrest in Myanmar
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

In the central Bago region of Myanmar, riots and violent attacks in villages left at least 40 people dead in March. Violence escalated between Buddhists and Muslims in the town of Meiktila, north of Yangon, with fighting in the streets and attacks on some mosques, shops and homes. 

Sabah, Malaysia, battles
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

Coastal eastern Sabah (part of Malaysian Borneo) was declared a Special Security Area in March after a series of gun battles took place between security forces and an armed group that invaded from the southern Philippines. At least 20 people were killed in the exchange. 

Syrian conflict continues
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

The US Department of State continues to warn against travel to Syria. Armed conflict between government and antigovernment groups persists throughout the country, with an increased risk of kidnappings, bombings, murder and terrorism. 

Mali warning
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

The US Department of State warns against all travel to Mali because of ongoing fighting in northern Mali, fluid political conditions and continuing threats of attacks and kidnappings of Westerners.

Tunisia caution
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

As of March 13, the US Embassy in Tunis is no longer on ordered departure status but continues to operate with limited staffing. The security situation in Tunisia remains unpredictable. Sporadic episodes of civil unrest have occurred throughout the country.

Avoid crowds in Guinea
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

Although the West African republic of Guinea has been relatively calm since the democratically elected president took office in December 2010, legislative elections, which should have taken place shortly after the presidential elections, have been delayed. 

Sudan risks
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

The US Department of State warns of the risks of traveling to Sudan and urges avoiding the Darfur region and the Blue Nile and South Kordofan states.

India and sexual assault
News Watch, May 2013 issue.

In the wake of several well-publicized incidents of sexual assault against Indian nationals, on March 24 the president of India signed a bill that greatly expands the penalties for a range of crimes, many of them dealing with sexual assault and human trafficking.

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