Research in high-risk contexts

For research projects involving stays in high-risk contexts (e.g. war zones), special precautions are necessary. It is recommended to obtain information at an early stage and to include possible emergency scenarios in the project planning. The following aspects may support you in doing so.

• Inform yourself in advance about visa requirements and necessary identification documents.
• Inform yourself about the security situation and the political situation.
• Inform yourself about accepted payment methods.
• Be aware of local laws and cultural customs (e.g. dress codes, rules on alcohol consumption, etc.).
• Be aware of prohibitions or restrictions on importing certain medications and substances (e.g. for treating mental illness).

Country-specific travel advice from the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) (available in German, French or Italian)
Travel Risk Map International SOS
Guide for Transboundary Research Partnerships

• Find out what health care is available locally. Write down local emergency numbers and contacts of nearby hospitals and emergency centres.
• Consult a medical professional regarding health risks and recommended vaccinations.
• If necessary, carry a well-equipped first-aid kit.
• Check whether additional insurance for medical treatment abroad and any medical repatriation is necessary.
• Check if a comprehensive travel insurance is necessary: Such insurance covers cancellation and rebooking costs as well as searching and rescuing costs. Travel insurance also supports you if your money and identification are stolen or if you have an accident. Attention: Individual risk categories usually have to be insured separately.

Health Advice for Travellers
Stay in the EU/EFTA or in UK (available in German, French and Italian)

• Make sure to inform your school/institute about your travel plans, contact addresses, telephone numbers, numbers of travel documents, insurances etc.
• Register on Travel Admin.

Travel Admin

• Swiss and Liechtenstein nationals who face an emergency situation abroad can contact the Swiss representations for advice and assistance, or call the FDFA (Federal Department of Foreign Affairs) helpline. However, the assistance provided by the FDFA only occurs when the persons affected have tried everything reasonable to overcome the emergency situation themselves, either organisationally or financially.
• Swiss representations abroad provide assistance with:
  • Loss of passport or identity card
  • Arranging contacts to emergency services, doctors or hospitals
  • Custodial
  • Crime, kidnapping and hostage taking
• Consular protection services are generally subject to a fee.

Helpline FDFA
Swiss representations abroad

• Think carefully about which devices and apps you will need for your visit. Electronic devices such as cell phones, laptops, hard drives may be examined upon entry and the surrender of PIN numbers and passwords may be requested.
• Be cautious about using public Wi-Fi and USB ports to charge electronic devices in public places.

Hochschule Luzern: Guidance on traveling with electronic devices