March 1 Demonstrations in Downtown Yerevan

February 26, 2010

The Embassy has learned that political opposition supporters intend to stage on March 1 at 5pm an authorized protest rally at the Matenadaran manuscript museum, followed by an authorized march through central Yerevan.  The march is expected to start near the Matenadaran, proceed down Mashtots and Lusavorich Streets through Republic Square, and end on Northern Avenue, but it could also spread to other downtown areas. American citizens are advised to exercise caution and consider alternative routes to avoid the downtown area during the march, as the march may create traffic disruptions.  The rally is being held to mark the March 1, 2008 violence that followed protests surrounding the 2008 presidential elections.  Ten to fifteen thousand participants attended a similar rally and march held on March 1, 2009.

Demonstrations take place in Armenia from time to time in response to world events or local developments.  We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence without warning.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution when in the vicinity of any demonstrations.  American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website, and the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website, www.travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found.  The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html , which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad.  In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan is located at 1 American Avenue, tel. 10-46-47-00 and fax 10-46-47-42.  The Consular Section is open from 9:00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m., with time reserved for American citizen services from 1:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for official U.S. Embassy holidays.  For more information, see the Embassy’s website at http://armenia.usembassy.gov.