This Travel Alert is being issued to alert U.S. citizens of safety and security concerns in The Union of the Comoros because of the possibility of demonstrations in conjunction with a referendum in Mayotte from March 27 – 31, 2009. American citizens should consider carefully the risks of travel to Comoros during that time. This Travel Alert expires June 30, 2009.
On March 29, 2009, voters in Mayotte, a "Collective" in the Indian Ocean governed by France, will go to the polls to decide whether or not to become a "Department" of the Republic of France. French Departments are more integrated into French legal, institutional, and social structures than Collectives. Although Mayotte is currently administered by France, the Union of the Comoros also claims Mayotte. Comoran public opinion strongly favors the return of Mayotte to Comoros.
The potential reaction of Comorans is uncertain, but demonstrations are likely. Demonstrations on emotionally-charged issues have turned violent in the past. American visitors in the Comoros should exercise caution and vigilance, and avoid all large public gatherings before, during, and after the March 29 vote in Mayotte.
The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas, to review emergency procedures and contingency plans, and to remain aware of their surroundings at all times.
American citizens considering travel to Comoros despite this Travel Alert are urged to register with the Department of State or the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo, Madagascar, through the State Department's travel registration website . By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy in Antananarivo to contact them in case of emergency. Please be sure to include your e-mail address and cellular phone number.
There is no American Embassy in the Union of the Comoros. The U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo has jurisdiction over the Union of the Comoros. The Embassy is located at 14-16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola, Antananarivo. The mailing address is B.P. 620, Antsahavola, Antananarivo, Madagascar; telephone [261] (20) 22-212-57 during regular business hours and for after hours emergencies; fax [261] (20) 22-345-39. Contact the Consular Section via e-mail. The Embassy's web site is located here .
Updated information on travel and security in Comoros may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada, or for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. For further information, please consult the Country Specific Information for the Comoros and the Worldwide Caution available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website .
