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Warden Information

Warden Message

February 21, 2008

This Warden Message is being issued to inform U.S. citizens of safety and security concerns related to scheduled demonstrations in Banja Luka and other parts of Republika Srpska related to Kosovo’s recent declaration of independence.

Following Kosovo's February 17, 2008 declaration of independence, street protesters in different locations clashed with police and have attempted to attack diplomatic missions and a number of government institutions in Banja Luka.  The U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo expects that future gatherings and events protesting Kosovo's declaration of independence, both official and unofficial, could pose security risks for onlookers and participants, including the potential for unrest and violence.  Businesses and organizations with U.S. affiliations may serve as focal points for these demonstrations. 

As a result of planned demonstrations in downtown Banja Luka, the US Embassy in Sarajevo has temporarily closed its branch office in Banja Luka.  The Embassy has advised Mission Staff to defer travel to Banja Luka until further notice.  Demonstrations may also occur in other parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in areas within the Republika Srpska on February 21 and could reoccur on succeeding days. Americans should monitor the media for updates and further details of times and locations and should consider deferring travel to Banja Luka at this time.

We wish to remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly 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. Since the timing and routes of scheduled marches and demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local media sources for new developments.  The State Department reminds U.S. citizens to avoid participating in public demonstrations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. U.S. Citizens are urged to avoid large crowds, maintain a low profile and review their personal protective measures.

For more detailed information on staying safe in Bosnia and Herzegovina, please see the Bosnia and Herzegovina Consular Information Sheet at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1070.html For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found.

The U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo is located at Alipasina 43, telephone (387)(33) 445-700, fax: (387)(33) 221-837; Internet address http://www.usembassy.ba
U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. 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.