Algeria: Exercise high degree of caution
Demonstrations relating to social and economic grievances are commonplace in Algeria and have increased since January 2011. In February 2011, a protest rallied approximately 2,000 protesters in Algiers and thousands more elsewhere in the country. Authorities responded with a substantial increase in police security in and around the capital. Protesters were reportedly detained and released shortly after the protest. Smaller isolated events have taken place in Algiers and other cities and towns in the country. Canadians are advised to avoid all gatherings and demonstrations and to stay away from areas where they occur, as they may turn violent without warning. They should also monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Algerian legislative elections are scheduled to take place on May 10, with the election campaign period beginning on April 15. Popular actions and/or terrorism-related activity may increase in the period surrounding the elections. Canadians are advised to exercise heightened caution and to avoid all gatherings and demonstrations, as they may turn violent without warning.
Go to www.voyage.gc.ca for more information on these advisories or call 1-800-267-6788 in Canada and United States.