Study Abroad Safety Alert

The following was sent by Brandeis’ Study Abroad Department to all Brandeis students studying abroad a few days ago. We are told to be on alert from July 26th to January 2nd, because

“In the past, terrorist organizations have on occasion planned their attacks to coincide with significant dates on the calendar.”

I think it’s great that there is a system to keep track of United States students studying abroad for safety. If anyone is concerned about their safety in regards to these issues, we would love to hear from you.

Office of Study Abroad

As we mark the 10th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the Department of State informs U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad of the continued threat posed by al-Qa’ida and its affiliates. While we have not identified any specific threats from al-Qa’ida affiliates and allies to attack the United States or our interests on the 9/11 anniversary, U.S. citizens should be aware that al-Qa’ida affiliates and allies have demonstrated the intent and capability to carry out attacks against the United States and our interests around the world. In the past, terrorist organizations have on occasion planned their attacks to coincide with significant dates on the calendar. This Worldwide Travel Alert supplements the July 26, 2011, Worldwide Caution, and expires on January 2, 2012.

U.S. citizens traveling and residing abroad should enroll in the Smart Travelers Enrollment Program (STEP) at the following website: https://travelregistration.state.gov. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate at their destination. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

Updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. For further information, please consult the Worldwide Caution and other consular information, including Country Specific Information, for specific countries. These products and the latest international travel information for U.S. citizens are available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov.

**********************************See http://travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html for State Department Travel Warnings

I’m interested to know which countries would be most endangered and how much of a threat is really facing Americans abroad? What do you guys think?