U.S. Embassy Skopje informs U.S. citizens that according to media reports, demonstrations are expected to take place near the Government Building beginning at 14:00 on May 17. The SDSM party in Macedonia will be demonstrating against the government, the anticipated size of the protest is unknown. Media reports indicate that pro-government entities are planning demonstrations in the same location on May 18.
U.S. Embassy Skopje informs U.S. citizens of the potential for continued demonstrations organized by political groups in Macedonia. The groups have stated that they plan to organize daily protests at 18:00 in front of the Government and/or Parliament building. The anticipated sizes of the protests are unknown. Previous similar demonstrations in Skopje took place in front of the Government and Parliament buildings. The protests may block key road intersections and/or disrupt public transportation. Demonstrations have also occurred in other cities. Further demonstrations may form with little or no notice. U.S. citizens should follow local media for up to date information on demonstrations and potential disruptions of traffic.
U.S. citizens should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. U.S. citizens are advised to respect local laws, pay close attention to developments and potential traffic disruptions through local media, and plan alternate routes should you find your original plans affected.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Macedonia enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you do not have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Macedonia. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter andFacebook to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Skopje, Macedonia is located at Samoilova 21, 1000 Skopje and is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. tel: (02) 310-2000. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance,the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is (389) 2-310-2000.
