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Impact of Current Affairs and Politics on Life of an Expat

by Carol Fleming - 02/06/2011

"What should an expatriate know when instability occurs in the country? What do they do? Whom do they notify? This article provides guidance and information with an emphasis on Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan and Yemen."

For most who have chosen to take a job outside of their home country it is for the benefits an individual can receive as an expatriate. There is also an opportunity for adventure and to enjoy and immerse oneself into a new culture with differing customs. However given the current events in the Middle East an expatriate has to also be aware of how these current affairs and politics can impact on day-to-day life.

When a leader such as former President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali stepped down from his position in Tunisia in January, was this in fact a signal for further protests and demands to occur in the Middle East region? King Abdullah II of Jordan replaced his Cabinet at the end of January. Now the Middle East region continues to face protests and is under turmoil in Egypt and Yemen. What does instability in a region mean for the expatriate who simply wants to do his or her job?

Tunis, Amman and Cairo are popular destinations for the expatriate teacher. However when political unrest erupts into fervent and emotional demonstrations where the possibility of violence is high, an expatriate in such a location cannot afford to bury his or her head in the sand.
If an expatriate did not do so on arrival, at the first instance of instability it is imperative to register with the nearest embassy as an expatriate in the country. The local embassy (or consulate) is responsible for informing its nationals of instability and danger to personal security. If there is a need to depart a country because of deteriorating conditions, the local embassy will offer and facilitate arrangements for its country nationals.

An expatriate should always carry a photocopy of his or her passport in the event of any emergency. It is also prudent to have an emergency evacuation plan in place for either at ones place of employment or residence. An emergency evacuation plan is not the same as departing the country with little to no notice but rather having safe places identified in advance that one can go to in time so instability.

Carol Fleming

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