Location: Cali, Colombia
Event: The United Nations (UN) Biodiversity Conference of Parties (COP16) will be held in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, 2024. U.S. citizens should be aware of their personal security and be aware of street crime. COP16 is expected to see protest activity from environmental groups and other activists that may lead to logistical disruptions. U.S. citizens should therefore incorporate mitigation measures while in Cali to limit their risk of becoming a victim of crime or getting caught in protests.
Given the high profile of COP16 and the security risks mentioned above, Colombian security forces have taken a proactive approach to securing COP16. Visitors can expect an increased police presence and road closures related to the event. Colombian National Police (CNP) will set up 14 security checkpoints along the main routes from the airports to the city, while side routes and off-main roads will be closed for the duration of the event. Two “safe zones” have been set up in the surrounding areas of Cali: A Blue Zone located north of Cali in Yumbo and a Green Zone in West-Central Cali. Both zones will have increased security force presence.
Despite the increased presence of security and police in Cali during COP16, the Embassy strongly advises conference goers to be vigilant about their security. Violent crime, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and homicide, is widespread in the remote areas outside Cali, and terrorist groups are active in some parts. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Cali, so it is important to follow instructions from local authorities and stay in the designated safe areas during the conference. You can find more information on COP16 including security recommendations below:
Official website:
Mobility:
Air connections to Cali:
Security:
Actions to Take:
If you decide to travel to Cali during COP16, follow the guidance found in the Travel Advisory for Colombia and:
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Maintain a high level of vigilance, especially in popular public areas.
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Be aware of your surroundings.
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Do not venture out of the “safe zones”.
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Keep a low profile.
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Avoid crowds and demonstrations.
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Avoid withdrawing cash at public ATMs or carrying large amounts of cash. Use ATMs at secure locations.
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Avoid parking on the street, utilize parking lots with attendants, and keep anything that appears to be of value out of sight. Keep vehicle windows up while driving.
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Avoid displaying high-value watches and jewelry while in public.
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Cellphones are continually targeted during robberies. Limit the use of your cellphone while out in public – if you need to use your cell phone, find a secure location away from the street.
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Only carry the cash and credit cards that you require for your day’s activities.
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If you are the victim of a robbery, in most instances, it is safest to be non-confrontational. There is nothing of any material value that is worth more than your personal health and well-being.
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Monitor local media for security updates.
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