Travel Warning: Liberia

October 11, 2000

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Liberia due to the unstable security situation throughout the country. In addition, the U.S. Government has imposed visa sanctions which will preclude issuance of visas and entry into the United States of government of Liberia officials and their family members. It is possible that this action will generate anti-American sentiment in Liberia.

In light of the above, the Department has ordered the departure from Liberia of U.S. Embassy personnel in non-emergency positions. Private Americans in Liberia are urged to consider departing the country. While commercial means are presently available, they may be subject to suspension without notice. U.S. citizens should be aware that the ability of the U.S. Embassy to provide direct assistance to U.S. citizens outside of the Monrovia area is severely limited.

U.S. citizens should be cautious of their surroundings at all times. The presence of many ill-trained and armed government security personnel continues to constitute a potential danger. The northwestern part of the country is unsettled as rebel activity in Sierra Leone and Guinea continues to affect stability along the Sierra Leone-Guinea-Liberia border areas. Travel anywhere in Liberia after dark is discouraged.