Hotspots Digest

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AMERICAS
Argentina
Bolivia (2)
Brazil
Canada (2)
Chile (2)
Colombia
Ecuador
Paraguay
Peru (2)
United States (4)


ASIA
China
India
Indonesia
Japan
Nepal
Philippines (2)
South Korea (2)


AUSTRALASIA
Australia
French Polynesia


EUROPE
Bulgaria (2)
Cyprus
Denmark
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany (2)
Greece
Ireland
Italy
Russia
Spain


MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA
Bahrain
Iraq
Israel
Palestinian Authority


SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Côte d'Ivoire (4)
Nigeria (4)


GOVERNMENT WARNINGS
Afghanistan
South Korea
Middle East And North Africa



AMERICAS


Argentina: At approximately 0900 local time on 9 November 2004, hard-line
picketing groups began marching from the Retiro train station to the Labor
Ministry, where they will demand an increase in social benefits. The
protesters will then proceed to the office of the Human Rights Secretary
to demand the de-criminalization of the protest and amnesty for those who
were charged for staging protests in the past. At 1400 local time, two
other groups will separately march from Plaza de Mayo and from the Avenida
de Mayo and 9 de Julio to the congressional building. Heavy traffic is
expected in downtown Buenos Aires throughout the day.


Bolivia: Residents of El Alto launched a 24-hour civic strike and road
blockage on 15 November 2004 to demand the approbation of the
government-proposed Hydrocarbons Law and a prompt trial against former
President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada, among other demands. The protesters
will reportedly block all access routes to La Paz, including the road
connecting the city to El Alto International Airport and the La Paz-El
Alto Highway. The city of El Alto is located approximately 9 mi/14 km from
La Paz. Road blockages in El Alto have a significant impact on
transportation to and from La Paz and have the potential to turn violent.


Bolivia: On 11 November 2004, the departments of Santa Cruz, Tarija and
Beni will launch a 24-hour general strike with road blockades, demanding
that a referendum be held on 5 December regarding autonomy for each
department and the economic and administrative decentralization of the
national government. Ground transportation to and from the mentioned
provinces will be suspended, as well as all domestic flights. The airport
administration will decide on 10 November whether to work under an
emergency schedule or not.


Brazil: Late on 15 November 2004, two powerful explosions were heard
onboard a Chilean-flagged fuel tanker, forcing authorities to close the
southern Brazilian seaport of Paranagua, located approximately 150 mi/240
km southwest of Rio de Janeiro. Though one crewmember is confirmed dead,
at least three crew members remain missing while 24 others were rescued.
Sources indicate that the tanker was unloading a cargo of methanol at the
time of the explosion and that the force of the explosion split the tanker
in two. The cause of the explosion remains unknown at this time.


As of 16 November, firefighters have not been able to control the fire..


Canada: Heavy snowfall and unusually strong winds toppled several large
aluminum high-tension power transmission towers on 15 November 2004,
knocking out power to more than 100,000 homes and businesses in Nova
Scotia. At least six of the multi-story aluminum girder structures were
knocked over. Officials estimate it may be upward of five days until power
is restored in some areas. The outage cut power to Halifax International
Airport, delaying flights for several hours. Flight operations are
expected to resume at approximately 2000 UTC. Canadian electrical crews
are conducting a detailed survey of the damage at this time, and should
have updated estimates on power restoration over the next several days..


Canada: A major explosion at a propane company in Port Darlington,
Ontario, located approximately 47 mi/76 km east of Toronto, and the
resulting fire late on 9 November 2004, forced the evacuation of hundreds
of people. Firefighters were still working to put out a blaze in a 35,000
gallon/132, 490 liter tank. The blast caused filled propane bottles to
explode. Police officers went door to door evacuating hundreds of nearby
residents from their homes and are not permitting them to return home
until power is restored. Officials also closed Highway 401, a major
east-west thoroughfare along Lake Ontario, because of debris littering the
roadway. On 10 November, cleanup efforts are still underway. Authorities
expect to fully reopen Highway 401 later in the day.


Chile: On 15 November 2004 at approximately 0745 local time, police
officers found a suspected explosive device at the Baquedano subway
station in Santiago. According to local reports, a device with movement
sensors, tubes and cables was found inside a small abandoned suitcase.
Subway service was suspended during the police operation, but was
restarted at approximately 0835 local time.


At least 4,000 police officers are deployed in Santiago to prevent
terrorist attacks or violent demonstrations during the meeting of the
Asia-Pacific Economic Forum (APEC) leaders, between 19 and 22 November..
Several anti-globalization groups have planned parallel forums along with
anti-globalization and anti-U.S. demonstrations.


Chile: On 10 November 2004, a protest in Santiago against the upcoming
meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC) turned
violent involving to clashes between demonstrators and police officers,
who used water cannons to control the crowd. At least 25 people were
arrested. According to local reports, the demonstrators also shouted
slogans against U.S. President George W. Bush and the war in Iraq.


The leaders of the 21 APEC economies -- including Bush -- will meet
between 19 and 21 November 2004 in Santiago. Protests are expected to
continue in the upcoming days.


Colombia: On 15 November 2004 at approximately 0905 UTC (0406 local time),
a magnitude 7.0 earthquake was reported just off the western coast of
Colombia. The quake was centered approximately 60 mi/95 km northwest of
Buenaventura, 240 mi/385 km west of Bogotá, at a depth of 5 mi/8 km.
Damage to some structures was reported in the towns of Cali and Cartagena,
and at least one person was injured in Cartagena when a wall collapsed on
top of him. The structures of several houses in Buenaventura were
reportedly damaged. The quake also briefly knocked out power to areas of
Bogotá, including the Bochica district and the Villas of Granada area. At
least six people suffered minor injuries.


Ecuador: Public employees on strike since 14 October 2004 will launch a
national road blockage on 11 November 2004. The demonstrators are
demanding the confirmation and unification of all public employees'
salaries. Some of the demonstrators have staged marches and road blockages
since the beginning of the indefinite strike, and in some instances these
actions have resulted in violence. Visits to all national parks except
Galapagos Islands remain suspended after park rangers joined the strike on
15 October.


Paraguay: On 15 November 2004, farmers and other laborers launched a
nationwide indefinite protest and road blockage. The protesters will
reportedly block the main roads connecting 10 different departments. A
caravan will also depart from three different points in the capital of
Asuncion and proceed to Democracia Square in the downtown area. The
protesters are demanding the return of military soldiers to their
barracks, the release of jailed demonstrators and the cessation of threats
and persecution against their leaders.


Peru: On 15 November 2004, residents and authorities of Arequipa will
march in the capital city of Lima to demand reimbursement of the mining
tax or an economic compensation for the province. The protesters will
reportedly march to Plaza de Armas Square -- where the seat of government
is located -- and later to the Economy Ministry, where they will remain
for several hours. Marches and gatherings in Plaza de Armas Square and
surrounding areas are prohibited. A heavy police presence and traffic
disruptions are expected in downtown Lima.


Peru: On 11 November 2004, approximately 20,000 people marched to the
congressional building in Lima, demanding an increase in the budget for
the National Police, tougher punishments for criminals and the
construction of more jails. At least 25 mayors from Lima department and El
Callao are proposing that private security guards be granted the authority
to arrest common criminals to help fight high crime rates in the Lima
department. The demonstration remained peaceful. Heavy traffic was
observed in the downtown area.


United States: On 15 November 2004 at 2130 local time, a fire was
discovered inside the avionics compartment of British Airways flight 239.
The crew of the aircraft, a Boeing 777 traveling from London to Boston
with 219 passengers and 14 crewmembers, discovered the fire after the
aircraft arrived at the gate to allow passengers to disembark. Airport
firefighters successfully contained the blaze, however, five firefighters
were slightly injured. No passengers or crewmembers were injured. Damage
to the aircraft was described as extensive. The cause of the fire remains
unknown at this time, however, authorities have ruled out terrorism.


United States: A Piper Navajo owned by Dash Air Charter crashed on 14
November 2004 just after 1700 local time on landing near San Antonio
International Airport in San Antonio, Texas. The pilot was attempting to
land the twin-propeller aircraft during poor weather, and missed the
initial runway approach. After pulling around for another attempt, the
pilot apparently clipped a tree, and crashed into a nearby apartment
building. In addition to the pilot, four passengers were aboard the
aircraft. All five people were killed. The apartment was unoccupied at the
time of the crash. FAA officials have begun an investigation into the
cause of the crash, however, poor weather is believed to be the primary
factor at this time.


United States: On 10 November 2004, the nationwide hotel workers' union
Unite Here -- currently engaged in negotiations over labor contracts in
California -- called for a boycott of meeting facilities, restaurants and
overnight stays at nine Los Angeles area hotels. The boycott targets the
Millennium Biltmore, Bonaventure, Hyatt Regency, Wilshire Grand, Regent
Beverly Wilshire, Century Plaza, St. Regis, Hyatt West Hollywood and the
Sheraton Universal. Union officials have not specified how they intend to
enforce the boycott at this time.


United States: On 10 November 2004, the U.S. government lowered the terror
threat level for the financial services sector in New York City, northern
New Jersey and Washington, D.C. to yellow (elevated) from orange (high).
The threat level was raised in August 2004 in response to intelligence
that al-Qaeda had conducted surveillance of specific buildings in these
areas.


ASIA


China: Two adolescent youths were able to bypass security at Kunming's
airport on 11 November 2004. The two apparently escaped from a nearby home
for runaway children, entered the tarmac, and climbed into the landing
gear of a Sichuan Airlines Airbus A320 bound for Chongqing. One of the
youths fell off shortly after takeoff, while the other managed to stay
inside the landing gear wheel well until the aircraft touched down in
Chongqing, where he was discovered and taken to a nearby hospital.
Authorities are investigating how the two were able to bypass airport
security.


India: A one-day general strike called by the radical Hindu group Vishwa
Hindu Parishad (VHP) to protest the arrest of a prominent Hindu religious
figure, led to violent clashes in several parts of the southern state of
Kerala on 15 November 2004. Activists from the VHP and other Hindu
organizations clashed with leftist activists opposed to the strike in
Trichur, Calicut and Malappuram districts. Several arrests were made
during the incidents. Violence was reported in other districts of the
state, including incidents of radical Hindu activists stoning vehicles and
attacking shops. Authorities arrested hundreds of VHP activists in the
state capital of Trivandrum to prevent a demonstration in front of the
state secretariat building. Several parts of the state were unaffected by
the strike, although public transportation was shut down throughout
Kerala.


Indonesia: On 12 November 2004 at 2126 UTC, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake
occurred, centered approximately 60 mi/100 km northwest of Dili, Timore
Leste, at a depth of 25 mi/38 km. The quake damaged buildings and knocked
out power to much of the surrounding area, including portions of
Indonesia. Accurate casualty counts are not available at this time,
however, at least 16 people are known to have been killed in areas of
eastern Indonesia. Some of the fatalities were reported in the town of
Kalabashi, the capital of the Alor district of Indonesia. A magnitude 6.4
aftershock also occurred in the same approximate location on 11 November
at 2249 UTC. Some tsunami wave sightings were reported near coastal areas
of Indonesia. It is unclear how powerful these waves were, or if any
damage occurred.


Japan: An earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale struck northern
Japan in the early morning hours of 10 November 2004. The quake was
centered in the Chuetsu region of Niigata prefecture, the site of a deadly
earthquake that occurred on 23 October 2004. A resident of Mitsuke City
who fell and dislocated a shoulder was the only injury reported in the
latest quake. A minor landslide occurred in Tochio, but there were no
reports of serious damage or injuries.


Nepal: On 9 November 2004, a bomb exploded inside a government building
under construction in downtown Kathmandu, injuring at least 38 people,
mostly construction workers. The bomb, allegedly planted by unidentified
assailants who walked into the building and left the device on the first
floor, shattered several windows and damaged an escalator.


Philippines: On 10 November 2004, an Italian aid worker who was abducted
by gunmen on 9 November on the far southern island of Mindanao was
released after negotiations. It is unclear if a ransom was paid. The
victim was unharmed.


Philippines: At approximately 1430 local time on 9 November 2004,
unidentified assailants reportedly abducted an Italian employee of the
Movimondo aid organization in Lanao del Norte Province, located on the
island of Mindanao. The victim was apparently driving in her vehicle with
several other people when gunmen blocked the road and abducted her and two
Filipinos, who were later released after ransoms were paid. The assailants
have reportedly demanded 300,000 pesos for the Italian citizen's release.
No further information is currently available.


South Korea: Thousands of farmers clashed with anti-riot police officers
near Seoul City Hall on 13 November 2004, as they unsuccessfully attempted
to march on the main government building and the presidential palace. The
protesters threw rocks, burning sticks and garbage at the police officers,
who responded by firing water canons and tear gas canisters. More than
10,000 farmers marched through Seoul to protest a proposed government
agreement to grant foreign rice producers a greater market share.


South Korea: The Korean Government Employees' Union (KGEU) began a strike
at 0900 local time (0000 UTC) on 15 November 2004. According to initial
estimates, at least 40,000 people are taking part in the strike. The KGEU
is demanding full labor rights from the Korean government, which has
warned it will fully utilize the police force to break up the strike and
will firmly punish or dismiss participants. The government also threatened
to arrest union members who attempt to prevent other union members from
reporting to work. Union members in provincial areas who work in public
utilities such as water supply and street cleaning, as well as healthcare
services, will not participate to minimize the impact on local residents.


In another statement, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU)
announced during a rally of 25,000 unionized workers a general strike of
its 620,000 members for 26 November to protest a bill on temporary
workers. The strike is set to begin shortly after the bill is presented to
the National Assembly.


AUSTRALASIA


Australia: On 16 November 2004, a high-speed passenger train traveling
from Brisbane to Cairns with 164 passengers and crewmembers derailed,
injuring at least 150 people. An estimated five passengers were seriously
hurt when seven of the nine carriages overturned during a late evening
trip near the town of Bundaberg. Australian rail officials have stated
that the section of track involved in the incident was in good condition
when the wreck occurred. Rail officials further added that the line
affected is a major route for passenger and freight trains and that the
line could be blocked for up to three days. Authorities are currently
searching for the train's "black box" data recorder. The cause of the
derailment remains unknown at this time.


French Polynesia: Several thousand hotel workers reportedly went on strike
in French Polynesia on 10 November 2004, affecting hotel services in
various areas of the country, including Papeete, the capital. The strike
was apparently staged to protest against the country's new president,
Gaston Flosse, who will reportedly offer the workers less than the
previous administration in terms of pay. The union of hotel workers is
also allegedly aligned with the ousted president's party. According to
union leaders, they may attempt to influence transportation workers to
strike as well.

EUROPE


Bulgaria: On 16 November 2004, Bulgaria's two main trade unions stated
that they would initiate a one-day nationwide strike to protest government
sponsored cuts in social benefits. The Confederation of Independent Unions
and the Confederation of Labour Podkrepa issued a joint statement, saying
that they were angered by plans to scrap wage bonuses for length of
service and harmful working conditions. The unions are also demanding
better legislation regulating employee salaries. The starting time of the
strike was not specified.


Bulgaria: The Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria
(CITUB) and the Podkrepa Labor Federation -- the country's largest trade
unions -- staged a rally in central Sofia on 10 November 2004 to protest
alleged violations of labor, social and human rights in Bulgaria.
Approximately 15,000 people participated in the rally. The gathering was
peaceful, but the demonstration blocked traffic at several major
thoroughfares throughout the day. Private vehicles were unable to pass
through central Sofia, while public transportation used alternative
routes. The unions timed the demonstration to mark the anniversary of the
beginning of the regime change in communist Bulgaria in 1989.


Cyprus: On 15 November 2004, pilots of seven Cyprus Airways flights
declared a wildcat two-hour strike at 0530 UTC. The strike disrupted
travel for approximately 1,000 passengers. Flights have since resumed,
however, disruptions related to the morning strike were expected to
persist until later in the day. Union officials also announced plans to
hold a second strike on 18 November. The expected duration for that strike
is not known at this time.


Denmark: Danish cabin staff employed by the Scandinavian airline SAS held
a wildcat strike on 12 November 2004, grounding most flights operated by
the carrier from Copenhagen's Kastrup Airport. Approximately 135 domestic
and international flights were cancelled, stranding thousands of
passengers at the airport. Organizers called the strike to protest a
proposal to change seniority rules for stewards and stewardesses. SAS
resumed its flights out of Copenhagen at approximately 1300 local time
(1200 UTC).


Finland: An estimated 1,300 bus drivers in the Helsinki region held a
strike on 9 November 2004 to protest policies allegedly favoring part-time
employees. The strike halted bus services in Helsinki, as well as the
nearby cities of Espoo and Vantaa. Commuter trains and Helsinki's subway
were not affected by the work stoppage.


France: Three blasts occurred at houses located in Cargèse on the island
of Corsica overnight on 14 November 2004, causing extensive damage to the
buildings but no injuries. Two houses under construction and an isolated
residence were targeted in the attack. No one has claimed responsibility
for the blasts as yet.


Georgia: Thousands of people supporting Sergei Bagapsh, the contested
winner of the Abkhazia presidential election, stormed Parliament and
several other governmental buildings in the regional capital of Sukhum on
12 November 2004. Armed demonstrators seized the office of current
president Vladislav Ardzinba for several hours, but dispersed when Bagapsh
promised to resolve the Abkhazia election dispute peacefully. Several
people were injured during the demonstration, and a ricocheting bullet
fired by a building guard killed one person. The result of the 4 October
presidential election has been contested amid allegations of fraud and
voting errors.


Germany: Reports emerged on 12 November 2004 that up to 1,000 right-wing
extremists are scheduled to hold a march and rally on 13 November 2004 at
a German war cemetery in the village of Halbe, which is located 25 mi/40
km southeast of Berlin. Thousands of people opposed to the far right are
expected to gather for a counter protest, and 1,600 riot police officers
will be deployed to prevent violence between the two groups. Clashes
between participants have occurred often in previous demonstrations.


Germany: Two letter bombs were sent on 10 November 2004 to officials in
Munich and Wuerzburg (located northwest of Munich). Neither of the devices
exploded. Police officials believe that the letters came from the same
person who has sent a total of nine such devices to officials in the Land
(state) of Bavaria since April 2004, evidently motivated by a personal
grudge against the authorities. There have been no reports of casualties
from any of the letter bombs.


Greece: Greek authorities have increased security in Athens in preparation
for protests on 17 November designed to mark the anniversary of a 1973
student uprising. Security forces have cordoned off streets near the
Athens Polytechnic (a focal point of the annual 17 November protests) and
have deployed additional police officers at government buildings,
embassies and major hotels. Central Athens will be closed to traffic. Riot
police officers will accompany the marchers from the Polytechnic to the
U.S. Embassy.

The 17 November marches traditionally have an anti-U.S. tone, because many
Greeks accuse the United States of having backed the military dictatorship
of the time. Concerns about violence are higher than usual this time, as
left-wing activists may make use of the occasion to vent their anger at
the increased security measures that were in place during the 2004 Olympic
Games in Athens, to protest the war in Iraq and to voice objections to the
recent U.S. decision to recognize the name Republic of Macedonia for
Greece's northern neighbor.


Ireland: Anti-war activists belonging to the organization Galway Alliance
Against War announced on 11 November 2004 that a protest will occur on 13
November 2004 at Shannon Airport. No details regarding the expected size
of the protest or its likely effect on airport operations are available at
this time, however, protest organizers have reportedly chartered several
buses to bring protesters to the site from surrounding areas.


Italy: Three small explosive devices detonated in different locations in
Milan on 8 November 2004, causing minor damage but no injuries. One device
exploded near San Vittore prison in central Milan, another in a garbage
truck that had collected trash from the prison, and the third detonated
near an employment agency in a southern area of the city. An anarchist
group calling itself the "Informal Anarchist Federation - Metropolitan
Cells" issued a claim of responsibility. The group has targeted labor
agencies in the past, with the last incident occurring on 30 October 2004.


Russia: On 9 November 2004 at approximately 1030 local time, a car bomb
exploded in a residential area just southwest of Moscow on Kedrov Street.
Two people were killed in the blast, and a third person was reportedly
injured. The explosion, resulting from the equivalent of approximately 10
oz/300 gr of TNT, damaged windows of several other nearby cars and
apartments. Authorities do not know at this time if the attack was
motivated by criminal or terrorist intent.


Spain: Two bombs exploded outside of a Spanish army post in the northern
region of Navarre on 13 November 2004. The explosions caused significant
damage to the doors and roof of the army post; no one was injured in the
attack. Although no one has claimed responsibility, a government official
reported that pamphlets from the Basque separatist group ETA were found
near the post.


MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA


Bahrain: On 10 November 2004, an individual or group claiming to be the
Bahrain branch of Iraqi Islamist group Ansar al-Islam posted a statement
on an Islamist Website threatening attacks against U.S. interests and
other targets in Bahrain. The statement specifically mentioned the U.S.
Embassy, the area near the ambassador's residence, the U.S. Fifth Fleet,
hotels and nightclubs, oil installations and the University of Bahrain.
The validity of the statement has not been determined.


Iraq: Iraq Prime Minister Iyad Allawi announced on 14 November 2004 that
Baghdad International Airport would reopen to civilian aircraft and
civilian aviation on 15 November 2004. Baghdad International Airport
closed a week ago under orders from Allawi who invoked some of his
emergency powers leading up to a coalition assault on terrorist
strongholds across Iraq. The government had previously stated that the
closure would continue indefinitely.


Israel: On 16 November 2004, reports emerged that two Katyusha rockets
were fired from inside the Lebanese border toward Israel late on 15
November. One rocket reportedly veered off target and crashed into the
sea. The other landed near the northern town of Shlomi, just over the
border. No damage was reported in either strike. Hezbollah has denied
involvement with the attack. The little known Martyr Ghaleb Awali Group
has since claimed responsibility for the strike.


Palestinian Authority: On 11 November 2004 at approximately 0330 UTC,
Palestinian leaderYasser Arafat died at the Percy Military Hospital in
Paris, France, after an undisclosed illness. In view of this expected
development, Palestinian officials have been meeting for several days to
prepare the political ground. Meanwhile, Israel's security forces have
been on a heightened state of alert since 4 November 2004 when it became
clear that Arafat's condition was terminal. When news of Arafat's death
was made public, Israeli security forces sealed off the West Bank and Gaza
as a precaution against potential Palestinian violence. Sources indicate
that Arafat's body will be flown to Cairo where the Egyptian government
will host a state funeral for him on 12 November, after which he will be
buried outside the Palestinian Authority Headquarters in Ramallah.


SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA


Côte d'Ivoire: U.N. Security Council member nations voted unanimously on
16 November 2004 to implement an arms embargo of Côte d'Ivoire. The
embargo imposes a 13 month ban on the purchase of military hardware by the
Ivorian government and rebel forces, and gives both sides one month to
return to the existing 2003 peace accords or face further sanctions. The
Ivorian government is currently seeking to rebuild its air force, which
was destroyed earlier in November by French forces after French
peacekeepers were bombed.


Côte d'Ivoire: On 11 November 2004, after five days of violence,
conditions in Abidjan appear to be returning to normal as reports have
indicated that some stores are open for business and traffic is returning
to the streets. In an effort to calm the situation, the Ivorian government
has been urging people to return to work and to resume their everyday
lives. Despite the appearance of calm, there is still an underlying
current of tension, as anti-French sentiment is still high and there are
reports of looting taking place in some parts of the city. According to
African Union representatives, talks are scheduled to take place on 11
November in South Africa to discuss the crisis and attempt to reach an
amicable solution.


Reports indicate that the international airport in Abidjan is still under
the control of the French military and closed to commercial traffic.
Hundreds of foreigners are waiting to be evacuated. No word has been given
as to when regular operations at the airport will resume.


Côte d'Ivoire: On 10 November 2004, U.N. officials announced that
evacuations of the organization's personnel in Côte d'Ivoire have
commenced. The first convoy of 40 U.N personnel left the U.N headquarters
in Abidjan on 10 November. Approximately 960 further staff members and
expatriates are expected to be evacuated over the next several days. Three
Boeing aircraft of unspecified type are expected to make daily ferry
service runs between Abidjan's international airport and the international
airport in Dakar, Senegal, carrying up to 250 passengers per flight.
French authorities have opened Abidjan airport to limited flights,
however, general service is not expected to resume in the near future.
Spain and Belgium both have also sent military aircraft to Abidjan's
airport on standby for evacuations. French military forces are conducting
evacuations of some of the 14,000 French nationals remaining in Côte
d'Ivoire.


On 9 November 2004, several violent clashes occurred inside Abidjan.
Supporters of Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo clashed briefly with French
troops approximately 0.5 mi/1 km south of the presidential palace during a
protest march, near the Hotel Ivoire. Seven Gbagbo supporters were killed
in the ensuing gunbattle. There are conflicting reports as French troops
claim that Ivorian military troops fired upon the crowd, however, some
eyewitnesses claim that the shots came from the French troops.


Côte d'Ivoire: Thousands of people lined the streets of Abidjan on 9
November 2004 in anticipation of South African President Thabo Mbeki's
visit to Côte d'Ivoire. The African Union dispatched Mbeki to negotiate a
return to calm between French peacekeepers and the Ivorian government.
French military forces have encircled the main airport in Abidjan, the
French embassy and several other government buildings.


The airport will likely remain closed for the next 48 hours and is under
the complete control of French forces at this time. The French military is
setting up a forward base in Togo to keep air support in range of Côte
d'Ivoire in the event the airport is recaptured. At present, French
authorities are not planning to evacuate the approximately 14,000 French
nationals in the country.


Cocoa production and export -- a mainstay of the Ivorian economy -- has
come to a complete halt due to the unrest, with the main seaports at
Abidjan and San Pedro closed to traffic. Looting is reportedly becoming
widespread in some areas of Abidjan.


Nigeria: On 15 November 2004, Nigeria's trade unions called off a general
strike planned for 16 November after the government offered a late deal
that would reduce the price of domestic fuel by 10 percent. Leaders for
the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) responded that the price cut is a good
start, but that further negotiations were needed to ensure that prices
would not go up again. The NLC further stated that it would not hesitate
to go on strike if the government once again allowed the price of fuel to
go up.


Nigeria: On 15 November 2004, the Nigerian government announced that it
will cut gas prices by 8 percent in a move designed to avert an impending
national strike on 16 November called by the Nigerian Labour Congress
(NLC). On 14 November, the NLC issued a statement saying it was following
through with the planned nationwide strike. According to NLC leaders, the
only recourse for stopping the strike was if the government reverses fuel
prices to the pre-September 2004 prices. After the most recent government
announcement, NLC leaders announced they would hold an emergency meeting
to consider the government's offer.


If the strike occurs, it will likely cause major disruptions across the
country as union leaders for some of the major trade unions have announced
they would join the strike action. Among the unions participating are the
Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN),
Trade Union Congress (UTC) and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff
Association of Nigeria (ASSAN). ASSAN has gone so far as to direct all its
members to shut down Nigerian air space. While the NLC has called for
peaceful protests, there is the possibility of violence as the government
could use a recent court order declaring the strike illegal as a way to
crack down on strike supporters. In addition, if the strike follows
through, it is likely that oil production for the country will be
disrupted due to oil workers joining the strike.


Nigeria: On 11 November 2004, a federal court in Abuja handed down a court
order declaring the proposed 16 November strike by the Nigerian Labour
Congress (NLC) as illegal. Despite the court order, representatives from
the NLC stated that the strike would continue as planned and urged
supporters to make ready. With the court order declaring the strike
illegal, there is a possibility for violent clashes between protesters and
the government as the government could use the court order as a way to
crack down on those protesting. There is also concern that the strike will
affect the country's oil exports as several of Nigeria's oil unions have
indicated they will join the NLC call to strike.


Nigeria: On 9 November 2004, a two-day strike by the country's doctors has
entered its second day. The strike has left many government hospitals and
private hospitals with skeletal staff who are unable to attend to all the
patients. A spokesperson for the National Association of Resident Doctors
(NARD) had announced in late October 2004 that they would carry out the
two-day strike to show their seriousness before giving the government a
21-day window to take action over their grievances. The doctors are
demanding payment of benefits to which they say they are entitled.


GOVERNMENT WARNINGS


Afghanistan: On 15 November 2004, the U.S. Department of State issued the
following updated Travel Warning for Afghanistan: "This Travel Warning
provides updated information on the security situation in Afghanistan and
on the upcoming Afghan presidential inauguration events. The security
threat to all American citizens in Afghanistan remains critical. This
Travel Warning supersedes the Travel Warning for Afghanistan issued July
30, 2004.


"The Department of State strongly warns U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan. There is an ongoing threat to kidnap and assassinate U.S.
citizens and non- Governmental organization (NGO) workers throughout the
country. The ability of Afghan authorities to maintain order and ensure
the security of citizens and visitors is limited. Remnants of the former
Taliban regime and the terrorist al-Qaida network, and other groups
hostile to the government, remain active. U.S.-led military operations
continue. Travel in all areas of Afghanistan, including the capital Kabul,
is unsafe due to military operations, landmines, banditry, armed rivalry
among political and tribal groups, and the possibility of terrorist
attacks, including attacks using vehicular or other Improvised Explosive
Devices (IEDs ), and kidnapping. The security environment remains volatile
and unpredictable.


"Presidential elections occurred on October 9, 2004 with minimal
disruptions. However, the potential for violence remains a real concern.
In the wake of the elections, a suicide grenade attack killed an American
citizen in downtown Kabul, and three U.N. international staff were
kidnapped in late October 2004. Presidential inauguration events in early
December may trigger additional violence.


"There have been a number of attacks on international organizations,
international aid workers, and foreign interests and nationals in the past
year. The United Nations has resumed operations, which were temporarily
suspended in the aftermath of these attacks. However, the UN continues to
be the target of attacks throughout the country. In June 2004, a UN and
NGO convoy was ambushed in Gardez, a UN demining team was ambushed with
rocket propelled grenades (RPGS) in Loghar, and a United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) convoy was ambushed with RPGS and small
arms fire in Kandahar. Over the past year there have been multiple rocket
attacks in Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanistan, including a rocket that
landed in a field opposite the Embassy compound in October 2004 and
another that landed in the International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF)
compound near the Embassy in June 2004.


"Family members of official Americans assigned to the U.S. Embassy in
Kabul are not allowed to reside in Afghanistan. In addition, unofficial
travel to Afghanistan by U.S. Government employees and their family
members requires prior approval by the Department of State. From time to
time, the U.S. Embassy places areas frequented by foreigners off limits to
its personnel depending on current security conditions. Potential target
areas include key national or international government establishments,
international organizations and other locations with expatriate personnel,
and public areas popular with the expatriate community. Private U.S.
citizens are strongly urged to heed these restrictions as well and may
obtain the latest information by calling the U.S. Embassy in Kabul or
consulting the embassy website below. Terrorist actions may include, but
are not limited to, suicide operations, bombings, assassinations,
carjackings, rocket attacks, assaults or kidnappings. Possible threats
include conventional weapons such as explosive devises or non-conventional
weapons, including chemical or biological agents.


"The United States Embassy cannot provide visa services, and its ability
to provide emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan is
limited. Afghan authorities also can provide only limited assistance to
U.S. citizens facing difficulties. "


South Korea: On 10 November 2004, the U.S. Embassy in Seoul issued a
Warden Message, stating: "Seoul Metropolitan Police authorities advised
the Embassy of two planned, large-scale demonstrations that will occur in
Seoul on Saturday and Sunday, November 13 and 14, 2004.


Approximately 15,000 Korean farmers plan on gathering at Seoul Train
Station on Saturday, November 13 at 1:00 p.m. to protest agriculture
policies of the Korean Government.


Approximately 20,000 Korean labor activists plan on gathering in Jongmyo
Park (Jongno 3-ga subway station) on Sunday, November 14 at 1:00 p.m. to
protest Korean Government labor policies.


Political, labor, and student demonstrations and marches have on occasion
become confrontational and/or violent. American citizens and their family
members should exercise caution and avoid gatherings of large groups in
order to minimize risk to their personal safety. Streets may also close
without warning on orders of the local police..."

Middle East And North Africa: The U.S. Department of State issued the
following Public Announcement concerning the death of Yasser Arafat on 11
November 2004: "This Public Announcement is being updated to alert
Americans to ongoing security concerns in the region following the death
of Palestinian Authority (PA) Chairman Yasser Arafat. U.S. citizens are
reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate
steps to increase their security awareness. This Public Announcement
supersedes the Public Announcement issued on August 21, 2004, and expires
May 10, 2005.


"The recent death of PA Chairman Arafat has the potential to produce
demonstrations and unrest throughout the region. In addition, the
Department of State continues to warn of the possibility for violent
actions against U.S. citizens and interests in the region. Anti-American
violence could include possible terrorist actions against aviation, ground
transportation and maritime interests, specifically in the Middle East,
including the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, the Arabian Peninsula and North
Africa.


"The Department is concerned that extremists may be planning to carry out
attacks against Westerners and oil workers in the Gulf region. Recent
armed attacks targeting foreign nationals in Saudi Arabia that resulted in
many deaths and injuries, including U.S. citizens, appear to have been
preceded by extensive surveillance. Extremists may be surveilling
Westerners, particularly at hotels and those using rental cars. Potential
targets may include U.S. contractors.


"Credible information has indicated terrorist groups seek to continue
attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East. Terrorist actions may
include additional suicide operations, bombings, hijackings, kidnappings
and targeted attacks resulting in death. While conventional weapons such
as explosive devices are a more immediate threat in many areas, use of
non-conventional weapons, including chemical or biological agents must be
considered a possible threat. Terrorists do not distinguish between
official and civilian targets. Increased security at official U.S.
facilities has led terrorists and their sympathizers to seek softer
targets such as public transportation, residential areas, and public areas
where people congregate including restaurants, hotels, clubs, and shopping
areas.


"On occasion, the travel of official personnel at embassies and consulates
around the world is restricted because of security concerns, and these
posts may recommend that private U.S. citizens avoid the same areas if at
all possible. Services to U.S. citizens in countries abroad may be
affected if employees' movements are restricted. If this happens, U.S.
embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency
services to U.S. citizens. In case office hours are reduced, U.S. citizens
in need of emergency assistance should telephone the nearest U.S. Embassy
or Consulate before visiting in person."


SIGNIFICANT DATES


16 November

Italy: NATO Parliamentary Assembly's 50th Annual Session in Venice from 12
- 16 November (Protests may occur)
Chile: Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in Santiago. Protests
expected.
Ecuador: Sixth Conference of Ministers of Defense of the Americas in
Quito.
Colombia: Independence of Cartagena-businesses close.
U.S., Florida: Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) Business Forum and
Ministerial Meetings from November 16 to 21, 2004, at the Hyatt and
Intercontinental hotels. Protests are likely.


17 November

Chile: Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in Santiago. Protests
expected.
Ecuador: Sixth Conference of Ministers of Defense of the Americas in
Quito.
U.S., Florida: Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) Business Forum and
Ministerial Meetings from November 16 to 21, 2004, at the Hyatt and
Intercontinental hotels. Protests are likely.
Democratic Republic Of Congo: Army Day.
Czech Republic: Anniversary of the 1989 Velvet Revolution (Working day but
outdoor gatherings usually organized). Struggle for Freedom and Democracy
Day.
Equatorial Guinea: City Fiesta (Malabo) (Street festivals take place)
Greece: Anniversary of Student Uprising (1973) (Student protests likely
and may turn violent).
Kenya: United Nations Security Council meeting in Nairobi. (Possibility of
protests.)


18 November

Chile: Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in Santiago. Protests
expected.
Ecuador: Sixth Conference of Ministers of Defense of the Americas in
Quito.
U.S., Florida: Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) Business Forum and
Ministerial Meetings from November 16 to 21, 2004, at the Hyatt and
Intercontinental hotels. Protests are likely.
Kenya: United Nations Security Council meeting in Nairobi. (Possibility of
protests.)
Bolivia: Beni Local Festival
Latvia: Independence Day.
Morocco: Independence Day (Public holiday. Offices and businesses close).
Uzbekistan: Flag Day (Not a holiday).


19 November

Chile: Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in Santiago. Protests
expected.
Ecuador: Sixth Conference of Ministers of Defense of the Americas in
Quito.
U.S., Florida: Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) Business Forum and
Ministerial Meetings from November 16 to 21, 2004, at the Hyatt and
Intercontinental hotels. Protests are likely.
Chile: Exceptional public Holiday in the Metropolitan area due to APEC
meeting in Santiago.
Mali: Liberation Day
Monaco: National Day.
Puerto Rico: Discovery of Puerto Rico Day.


20 November

Chile: Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings in Santiago. Protests
expected.
U.S., Florida: Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) Business Forum and
Ministerial Meetings from November 16 to 21, 2004, at the Hyatt and
Intercontinental hotels. Protests are likely.
Mexico: Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution Day (Schools, some
businesses and government offices close).


22 November

Lebanon: Independence Day (Public holiday. Banks and offices close.
Parades organized).


23 November

Japan: Labor Thanksgiving Day (A break day for workers. Government offices
and businesses close, except for department stores and
entertainment-related businesses)


25 November

Chile: Augusto Pinochet's Birthday.
Laos: Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Forum to be held in
Vientiane; officials from 10 countries will be in attendance. (The U.S..
government has warned of a possible threat from a Laotian anti-government
group.)
United States and Puerto Rico: Thanksgiving Day (Government offices, banks
and most businesses close; retail stores close, or open with very limited
hours).
Suriname: Independence Day. Most offices and businesses close, outdoor
celebrations organized.


26 November

Laos: Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Forum to be held in
Vientiane; officials from 10 countries will be in attendance. (The U.S..
government has warned of a possible threat from a Laotian anti-government
group.)
Comoros: Anniversary of the Death of Alkoutb Said Muhammad Cheif Al
Maarouf.
Mongolia: Independence Day.