| The US Department
of State has issued a public announcement to inform
Americans, resident and traveling in Italy of potential disruptions
related
to the meeting in Florence of the European Social Forum (ESF) from
November
6-9, 2002. This announcement will expire on November 15, 2002.
The ESF, an anti-globalization
gathering, is expected to attract 18,000
attendees for a series of meetings in Florence November 6-9. It
will
culminate in an anti-war rally and march on November 9 expected
to attract
100,000 participants. The organizers have assured local authorities
that
their intention is to hold a peaceful meeting. Security will be
tight in and
around the city of Florence during that time period.
Travelers should be aware
of heightened security and potential delays
entering Italy during this period. Travelers in Florence should
follow news
reports, avoid crowds, and exercise caution. Particularly, travelers
should
avoid the area between the Fortezza da Basso and Campo di Marte
on November
9, when the anti-war rally is scheduled to take place.
|
