Serious safety problems are rare. Nonetheless, there are several new safety-related resources that may be of interest to you and those on your campus charged with study abroad programs. The heart of OSAC is an Overseas Security Electronic Bulletin Board that provides information to OSAC members on security related incidents and threats overseas. Information includes general country crime reports, locations and key contacts at U.S. embassies and consulates, and electronic updates on new or unusual situations overseas. OSAC is now expanding its efforts to include more information relevant to overseas study and travel.
Membership is free.
OSAC also provides telephone access to regional experts, as well as a series of useful publications on international security. A number of associations are reviewing these guidelines and they will be available to campuses in April or May. I believe that the final product will be a practical, common sense piece that addresses some of the issues surrounding safety in study abroad. UE s publication should provide useful insights into good practices and resources available to institutions seeking to protect the safety of participants, as well as limit the liability exposure of higher education institutions. UE member institutions should look for this update in March.