US Reissues Travel Advisory for Bangladesh, Flags Communal Violence and Terror Threats
The advisory maintains a Level 3 alert for Bangladesh, warning of ongoing security concerns including unrest and minority-targeted violence.
Dhaka: The United States has updated its travel advisory for Bangladesh, reiterating a Level 3: Reconsider Travel warning while reinforcing heightened risks in specific regions. The update, issued Saturday, includes minor edits but keeps the focus on communal violence, terrorism, and criminal threats, particularly in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Certain areas in Bangladesh, including the Chittagong Hill Tracts—comprising Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban districts—remain under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory. The U.S. State Department cited threats including “communal violence, terrorism, crime, and other security risks.”
According to the advisory, while violent unrest has subsided since the formation of the interim government in summer 2024, protests still occur and have the potential to escalate rapidly. “US citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, as they may turn violent without warning,” the statement said.
The advisory also highlighted serious concerns in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, pointing to past kidnappings—some driven by domestic disputes and others targeting religious minorities. Threats from separatist groups and politically motivated violence were also mentioned, along with incidents involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and shootings.
Travel Guidelines Issued for US Citizens Visiting Bangladesh:
- Avoid all demonstrations or political gatherings, which may escalate unexpectedly.
- Stay updated through local media and be flexible with travel plans.
- Do not resist robbery attempts; report incidents to local authorities when safe.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and assist consular access in emergencies.
- Review the Country Security Report for Bangladesh.
- Visit the CDC website for up-to-date health guidance.
- Have a personal emergency contingency plan and consult the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Obtain comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage.
- For high-risk travel guidelines, visit travel.state.gov.
Bangladesh experienced significant unrest last year, including widespread student-led protests that led to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August. The interim government, now led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, has faced ongoing episodes of violence—especially targeting minority communities—even after taking control.