Planned Demonstration in Pogradec

September 18, 2012

The Albanian Imam League has applied for a permit from the Albanian State Police to hold a public demonstration in the city of Pogradec tomorrow, September 19, 2012.  The stated purpose of the event, scheduled to take place from 5pm to 5:30pm in front of the Cinema Hall, is to protest a controversial film.  While Pogradec is located more than 100 km from Tirana, the U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that demonstrations in one city or location have the potential to lead to additional public rallies or demonstrations in other locations around the city or country.  Possible attendance at the planned demonstration is estimated at 50 people.

U.S. Embassy Tirana reminds you that demonstrations such as this 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.  Large public gatherings can affect all major incoming arteries to the city in which they occur.  Demonstrations in one city have the potential to lead to additional public rallies or demonstrations in other locations around the city and country.  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.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Albania enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov.  STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency.  If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. 

Regularly monitor the State Department's website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution.  Read the Country Specific Information for (Albania).  For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions.  You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy Tirana is located at Rruga Elbasanit, Nr. 103 in Tirana, Albania and is open to the public by appointment on Monday through Thursday from 13:15 to 15:15.  You can schedule a non-emergency appointment by visiting our American Citizen Services website.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy/Consulate is +355-(0)4-224-7285.