Germany Public Announcement

Issued by US Department of State

Feb 03, 2003

This Public Announcement alerts Americans to large demonstrations expected to occur in the city of Munich on February 7, 8 and 9, 2003. American citizens visiting or resident in Munich should exercise caution during this period. This Public Announcement expires on February 15.

From February 7 to February 9, 2003, the city of Munich will host the annual "Conference on Security Policy". Local officials expect a large turnout of demonstrators. Bavarian police authorities have expressed confidence that law and order will be maintained, and they will implement additional countermeasures for public safety. Traffic disruptions are likely in the Munich city center, and access to an area several blocks wide around the Bayerischer Hof Hotel, the site of the conference, will be restricted.

The Embassy reminds American citizens that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn into confrontational situations and possibly escalate into violence. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Munich are advised to take common-sense precautions and avoid sites of demonstrations, which will include Sendlinger Tor, Odeonsplatz, Lenbach Platz, and Marienplatz. Travelers should keep informed of local developments by following local press, radio, and television.

U.S. citizens may obtain updated security information at the U.S. Consulate General in Munich, located at Koeniginstrasse 5, 80539 Munich, telephone (49)(89)2888-0.

For further information on travel to Germany, please consult the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet on Germany and the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement which are located on the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov.