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In a January 29, 1999 Worldwide Notice, the State Department addressed the potential Y2K problem. This public announcement recognizes the possible outcomes of computer-based systems throughout the world that may be unable to process information causing unpredictable results including systems malfunctions. Many businesses and governments have been addressing these issues and may experience little or no noticeable disruption in essential services. The State Department, in its announcement, considers that there are countries with limited resources or expertise, or who are not giving the problem the necessary attention, that may experience significant difficulties. Where not prepared, the Y2K problem could affect financial services, utilities, telecommunications, transportation and other vital services.

Because it is difficult to forecast where the problem will crop up, and when--some problems could appear before January 1, 2000--The State Department identified the following areas of concern in its Worldwide Notice:

• Some transportation systems abroad could be affected by computer problems. Although the major airlines have been in the forefront of preparing for potential Y2K problems, U.S. citizens should be aware of the potential for disruption of transportation services and factor that into their overall travel plans. Financial institutions outside the United States may experience difficulties. U.S. citizens abroad should not assume that credit cards, ATM machines, international banking transactions, etc. will operate normally in all locations throughout the world.
• U.S. citizens abroad with special medical requirements should not assume that all medical facilities and services will be available. Electrical, water and sanitation systems involving computers may experience malfunctions from the Y2K problem.
• U.S. citizens abroad may wish to consult their insurance companies to ascertain if policies cover Y2K-related problems.

All U.S. citizens planning to be abroad in late 1999 or early 2000 should be aware of the potential for problems and stay informed about Y2K preparedness in the location where they will be traveling. The Department of State will provide more specific information periodically as it becomes available. By October 1, 1999 Consular Information Sheets on individual countries will contain specific information, as available, on the Y2K preparations in each country.

Americans traveling or residing abroad are urged by the Department of State to review their personal security measures and to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate by phone or fax regarding up-to-date information on security conditions. The recommendation follows angry reactions of Kurds in Europe after the February 15 announcement of PKK leader Abdulla Ocalan’s transfer to Turkey.

Greek diplomatic missions and personnel have been subjected to violence, and it is possible that this danger may extend to American interests as well. U.S. Government personnel and facilities are taking appropriate security measures.

In addition, U.S. citizens planning to travel abroad should consult the Department of State’s Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets, and regional travel brochures. Current information is also available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov.

Congress continues to address airline passenger issues

Bills that would require specific, uniform ways to handle airline passenger issues continue to be introduced in Congress. Most recently, Chairman of the House Transportation Committee, Representative Bud Shuster, R-Pennsylvania, introduced a bill that seeks to make airlines compensate passengers stuck on runways. Shuster’s bill, the "Airlines Passenger Bill of Rights Act" includes provisions for passengers to receive twice their air fare if having to sit over two hours, three times the ticket price for three-to four- hour waits, and four times for four- to five-hour waits. The bill would also require airlines that cancel flights for economic reasons to provide full refunds and timely alternate transportation; and direct the Department of Transportation to investigate whether unaccompanied minors are properly supervised by an airline between flights.