As we prepare for LabWeek23 in Istanbul, we are taking several precautions to ensure the safety and accessibility of the event, in light of ongoing global and Middle East developments. We note that in-person attendance is entirely optional - we will facilitate remote participation via video and livestream to give attendees maximum flexibility in whether to attend in-person or virtually.

We’re taking steps to increase safety for our in-person attendees, and continuing to follow global developments closely. We are working with the Swissôtel and have enlisted external security to enhance safety at the venue. Attendees can expect to receive regular safety updates in our dedicated LabWeek23 newsletters.

We hope that the event modifications will allow you to participate to the extent you feel comfortable. It is our understanding that Devconnect will continue as planned as well. The PL safety team will continue to monitor the situation closely and share updates with the network. Please join our LabWeek23 Telegram  group and let us know if you have any questions.

Stay informed:

•  The U.S. State Department:  Travel advisory for Istanbul is Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
• Countries including the U.S., Canada, Australia and U.K. advise increased caution when traveling to Istanbul (Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution)
• The Israeli National Security Council travel warning to Türkiye has been raised to the highest level – level 4 (high threat) – for all areas of the country. All Israelis in Türkiye are called upon to leave.

Travel Preparations:

• Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers any unexpected events, including trip cancellations and disruptions. One potential option is  GeoBlue. 
• In Türkiye, it is required by law to carry ID at all times. Consider carrying a color copy of your passport wherever you go, and leaving another color copy with a trusted person at home in the event your passport is lost. Only show your passport to trusted individuals or authorities.
• Pack extra required medications in case of any travel delays.
• Consider carrying a physical copy of your emergency contact information, your lodging info, and transportation provider contact info in case you need to access it offline.

Contact Information:

• Provide your emergency contact information to your embassy or consulate upon arrival in Türkiye.
• Have a list of local emergency numbers (ambulance, fire, and police are 112), your country's embassy or consulate contact information (e.g., U.S. Consulate in Istanbul is (90) 212-335 90 00), and the conference organizers' contact details readily available.
• Consider a service like Roamless to avoid high roaming charges, the hassle of sourcing local SIM cards or unsecure Wi-Fi connections. Roamless offers a global eSIM with local pricing, pay-as-you-go options and no expiry. Download the app  here and use the code: LABWEEK23 to get the first 2GB free.

Stay Away from Higher-Risk Areas:

• As with any travel, remember to stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Avoid tourist areas and stick to the event venue.
• Follow local authorities' guidance and stay in groups.
• There have been protests in Istanbul, though these have primarily been peaceful. Protests have occurred around Beyazit Square, the US consulate, the Israeli consulate and some US businesses such as Mcdonalds locations.
• Keep a low profile and avoid flashy displays of conspicuous wealth or leaving devices unattended (especially in crowded or touristy areas).
• Consider a buddy system or a regular evening check in with team members each day.
• Be cautious on social media regarding political and personal views. Note that Türkiye has a ban on LGBTQ organizations and speech.

What to Do in Case of Escalation

• Be prepared for disrupted travel plans.
• Stay at your hotel and contact your consulate.
• Watch for security instructions on the LabWeek23 Telegram group.

We recommend avoiding crowded, touristy areas in Istanbul, as multiple countries have issued travel advisories warning about heightened risk wherever tourists and foreigners are present (e.g., U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory;  Canadian Government Travel Warning). Always remain alert and aware of your surroundings when traveling.