Unrest in Myanmar

In the central Bago region of Myanmar, riots and violent attacks in villages left at least 40 people dead in March. Violence escalated between Buddhists and Muslims in the town of Meiktila, north of Yangon, with fighting in the streets and attacks on some mosques, shops and homes. 

The government of Myanmar estimates that more than 12,000 people have been displaced by the current violence. A state of emergency and a curfew were declared in the townships of Meiktila, Mahlaing, Tharzi and Wundwin.

While Myanmar is considered safe for most visitors, the US embassy warned travelers to avoid the Mingalar Market and Yuzana Plaza part of the capital city of Yangon due to increased tensions in that area. 

In 2012 in the western state of Rakhine, nearly 200 people died and tens of thousands were displaced during similar sectarian fighting.