Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstrations Planned for Sunday, January 26 and Monday, January 27 2014

Released on January 24, 2014

This security message is being issued to alert U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Cambodia that the leaders of various unions have announced plans for a demonstration of over 10,000 people to be held in Phnom Penh’s Freedom Park (Streets 106/108 between 51 and 63) on Sunday, January 26.  Additionally, a demonstration of approximately 200 people is planned for Monday, January 27 to be held in front of the Ministry of Information (#62 Preah Monivong Blvd).  These would be the first large-scale demonstrations since the Phnom Penh Municipality announced a prohibition on demonstrations in early January, and Cambodian government officials have publicly stated that these events will not be allowed to proceed.  There is a potential for violence should government security forces clash with protestors.  The U.S. Embassy notes that violence, including fatalities, has occurred at demonstrations in the past, most recently on January 3.  The U.S. Embassy expects that government security efforts for the upcoming demonstrations will include roadblocks around Freedom Park, including Wat Phnom and the U.S. Embassy compound, on Sunday and in the vicinity of the Ministry of Information on Monday, leading to significant traffic disruptions in these areas.  The Cambodian government has also highly restricted movement into and around Phnom Penh during past demonstrations, which could also be repeated.


The U.S. Embassy encourages you to avoid large crowds and immediately leave any area where crowds are gathering.  You should remain alert to local security developments by monitoring local news reports, be vigilant regarding your personal security and preparedness, be aware of your surroundings, and plan your activities accordingly.  The U.S. Embassy will be closed as regularly scheduled on Sunday, January 26 and plans to open as normal on Monday, January 27.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Cambodia 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 nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.  If you don’t 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 Cambodia.  For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. Embassy 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 and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh is located at 1, Street 96 (near Wat Phnom), Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and is open Monday thru Friday (except for U.S. federal holidays) from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.  The telephone number is 023-728-000.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance during regular office hours, please call (+855) 023-728-402, 023-728-051, or 023-728-234.  In the event of an emergency after hours, please call (+855) 023-728-000, then press 1 and then 0 to be transferred to the operator.