Local media is reporting that the ongoing campesino demonstrators are currently marching towards the presidential compound which is directly adjacent to the U.S. Embassy compound on Mariscal Lopez Avenue. Security personnel are already making preparations that may include road blocks near the embassy. Mission personnel have been advised to consider departing the compound earlier than normal to avoid difficulties. U.S. citizens in the area should be aware of an increased police presence in this area and some businesses in the area may close early due to the unstable environment.
Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.
Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
· See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Paraguay Specific Information.
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
· Contact the U.S. Embassy in Paraguay located at 1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue at +595 21 213 715 from 7:30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +595 21 213 715 extension 2210 or +595 21 213 715 and listen to the prompt for emergencies.
· Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
