Author Archives: Frank Rizzo

A split Eleventh Circuit panel rejected the Trump administration's interpretation of federal immigration law as requiring mandatory detention of noncitizens who entered the U.S. unlawfully, ruling that such individuals are entitled to bond hearings and deepening a growing circuit split.

A First Circuit panel appeared disinclined Thursday to revive a suit alleging the federal government regularly withholds records from immigrants in deportation and asylum proceedings, with one judge saying that if the process is unfair, it would be Congress' job to fix it.

Exercise normal precaution

in New Zealand.

New Zealand is generally a safe destination for travelers.  Review our travel guidance for New Zealand to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

 

Do not travel

to Burkina Faso for any reason due to crime, kidnapping, terrorism, and health. 

Do not travel to Burkina Faso for any reason.

U.S. government employee travel restrictions

U.S. government employees working in Burkina Faso are not allowed to travel outside of Ouagadougou due to safety risks. Personnel are discouraged from nighttime travel to the Balkiui and Rayongo (also known as Dayongo) neighborhoods of Ouagadougou’s Arrondissement 11.

Americans in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to take the same precautions.

Crime

State of Emergency

Violent crime is common throughout Burkina Faso. Crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking especially during local holidays and seasonal events.

Roadblocks, including those set up by armed groups, occur throughout the country. In urban areas, police checkpoints may also be present, particularly at night. In addition, highways across the country are frequently the scene of attacks on government, civilian, and commercial targets.

Local authorities may not recognize travelers with dual nationality. Your U.S. nationality may not be recognized if you are also a national of Burkina Faso. Review our information on Dual Nationality.

The Government of Burkina Faso has declared a state of emergency in the following territories:

• The entire Sahel and East regions


• The provinces of Kossi and Sourou (Boucle de Mouhoun region)


• The province of Kenedougou (Hauts Bassins region)


• The province of Loroum (North region)


• The province of Koulpelogo (Center-East region)

Kidnapping

• The threat of kidnapping of Westerners by criminal or terrorist groups remains high throughout the region in Burkina Faso. This includes Ouagadougou and especially in the Sahel and East Regions. Extortion and kidnapping for ransom are big sources of financing for terrorist and criminal groups.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Burkina Faso. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist organizations continue to plan and conduct terrorist activities throughout Burkina Faso. Terrorists and armed groups target foreigners to kidnap for ransom.

Terrorists may attack without warning:

• Spots frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country


• Police stations


• Customs offices


• Areas at or near mining sites


• Military posts


• Night clubs


• Hotels


• Restaurants


• Places of worship and religious sites


• International diplomatic missions


• Local security forces and civilians

Health

Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Health facilities are available in major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.


• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.


• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.


• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.


• Review the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information.  

My passion for speed puzzling — I can complete a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle in under 50 minutes — has sharpened my legal skills in more ways than one, with both disciplines requiring patience, precision and the ability to keep the bigger picture in mind while working through the details, says Tazia Statucki at Proskauer.