Emory Destination Risk Ratings

Emory's Global Safety & Security team regularly reviews risks associated with travel to and operations within destinations around the world. Properly accounting for destination risks is critical to staying safe while abroad. Emory classifies destinations into one of three risk (Nominal, Elevated, and Restricted) categories based on a variety of external indicators. Some destinations may also be added to the restricted destinations list temporarily in response to acute extraordinary circumstances such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or public health emergencies. 

All Travelers going to any elevated-risk destination are encouraged to contact Global Safety & Security to receive a risk assessment to inform their travel and decision-making. Graduate and Professional Students should consult their Emory school for additional approval and requirements for travel to higher-risk destinations. All Undergraduates must receive approval from the Executive Travel Safety Committee (ETSC) and the traveler's dean before traveling to elevated-risk destinations.

All travel to Restricted Destinations requires review and approval by the Executive Travel Safety Committee (ETSC).

Risk Classifications

Executive Travel Safety Committee (ETSC)

Emory-Sponsored International Travel Policy (10.18) defines the Executive Travel Safety Committee (ETSC), which is comprised of the Vice Provost for Global Engagement, the Executive Director of the Office of Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), and the General Counsel, or their designees, and others as deemed appropriate by the President.

Requesting Review by ETSC

Requests can be submitted by the traveler or by others on the traveler’s behalf. Following review, the ETSC will advise the submitter as well as the associated dean or unit head of their recommendation. 

For ETSC review, submit the following to global.safety@emory.edu:

• The names of all proposed travelers and their Emory affiliation (e.g., ECAS)
• For students: A letter of support from their faculty advisor or the unit sponsoring the travel
• The reason for the proposed travel (e.g., conference, research, study abroad experience, etc.)
• Itinerary information, including expected trip dates, planned destination(s) [cities, countries], and anticipated activities
• An explanation of why the proposed travel is essential and the steps taken to mitigate its potential risks

Please contact the Global Safety and Security unit in Emory Global Engagement with any questions.