What to do in the Event of a Violent Protest
June 20, 2022
Knowing how to stay safe is essential when traveling to a foreign country. Protests can be common, and if you're unprepared, they can be dangerous.
Here are some tips on how to stay safe if you encounter a protest in a foreign country:
- Don't go alone. It is recommended that you travel with someone who knows the area and speaks the language of where you are going. If you must travel solo, bring a guidebook or other material to help you navigate the unfamiliar.
- Do not engage with protesters or try to talk to them about their cause. If a protester approaches you, it is recommended that you politely decline to speak, even if they persist in getting your attention.
- Stay away from groups of people who appear agitated or angry. Even if it's just one person yelling or waving a sign around, others nearby might want nothing more than an excuse to start fighting with someone.
- Don't take photos or videos of protests—this will make you a target.
- Always be aware of your surroundings; leave immediately if you see something suspicious.
- Consider purchasing travel assistance before traveling. If the situation worsens to where you are concerned for your safety, a service like CAP Tripside Assistance can provide support 24/7. If required, a security or crisis response team could be deployed to evacuate you to safety.