Emergency Messages

Given the current security situation, delay all travel to Israel or Palestine be deferred until further notice. For the most recent alerts and embassy messages from the U.S. Department of State (DOS), review the U.S. DOS Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.  We have confirmed that Northwestern does not have any students, faculty or staff in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza at this time.

On October 17, the U.S. DOS raised the Travel Advisory for Lebanon to a Level 4: Do Not Travel. Delay travel to Lebanon until further notice. Contact OGSS to discuss future travel to Lebanon. Additional disclosures are required to confirm evacuation coverage. 

On November 1, Crisis24, Northwestern's political, security and natural disaster evacuation (PEND) added Israel and the Palestinian Territories to the list of countries that it considers high-risk to determine whether or not PEND services will be covered in case of a serious, non-medical emergency.  Faculty, staff and students must now disclose their to Israel before departure. More information and disclosure form can be found under Disclosures for High Risk Destinations.

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) issued a Worldwide Caution to highlight increased risks for overseas travelers during times of intense international conflict. The announcement stresses the importance of staying alert in areas frequented by tourists.

To receive timely updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate while traveling, enroll in the U.S. DOS’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This resource is also available to non-US citizens.

The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) includes penalties up to life imprisonment for consensual same-sex relations and capital punishment for crimes of “aggravated homosexuality” (such as serial offenders). Social acceptance of homosexuality is very low in Uganda. LGBTQI+ persons, or persons perceived to be LGBTQI+, could face harassment, imprisonment, blackmail, and violence. The public is required to report to the police a person suspected of committing or intending to commit acts enumerated in the law. Individuals or organizations viewed as publicly supporting the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons could also be prosecuted. For additional information, read the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory for Uganda.