News and Information
Planned demonstration - Warden Message
May 12, 2009.
This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to a planned demonstration in Asuncion on May 12. It is estimated that 10,000 to 40,000 people will participate in an anti-government march. Protests will take place throughout the day in key points in Asuncion. At approximately noon, protestors will march to Congress (downtown Asuncion). The Paraguayan National Police has designated several public squares and routes in the city as meeting points and marching routes for the protestors.
In addition to the march in Asuncion, other demonstrations will be held in key points outside of Asuncion. Organizers hope to block major roads, particularly in the larger cities. The Paraguayan National Police plans to implement rigorous security standards in order to best guarantee the safety of citizens and to safeguard public buildings.
Please anticipate major congestion throughout the downtown area. American citizens are strongly urged to avoid all large gatherings or any other event where crowds have congregated to demonstrate or protest. While demonstrations and protests are generally peaceful in Paraguay, they can easily turn violent. If you find yourself near a demonstration or protest, immediately depart the area.
Spontaneous demonstrations take place in Paraguay from time to time in response to world events or local developments. American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
Americans living or traveling in Paraguay are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion, Paraguay, through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov.
U.S. Embassy Asuncion contact information:
Tel: 011-595 21-213-715,
after hours 011-595 21-213-715 extension 2210
Fax: 595-21-228-603
email: ParaguayConsular@state.gov
Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy's website and the U.S. Department of State's, Bureau of Consular Affairs' website www.travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.