From medical emergencies to security concerns—or any other travel issue big or small—here at On Call, the health and safety of the travelers we serve is our top priority. Read our latest case study for an inside look at how On Call’s Global Assistance Teams work around the clock to fulfill our mission of helping travelers in their time of need, every day.
Protests in Peru
Twenty people with a faith-based organization were spending a couple of weeks in Cusco, Peru, a popular springboard destination for those venturing to Machu Picchu. A few days into the trip, there were reports of several large-scale, disruptive protests associated with varying groups, including local teachers demanding increased pay and demonstrators aggravated by a government proposal to cancel the local airport’s development.
As the protests began to spread, there were reports of disruptions to public transportation routes, tourist services, and access routes to the airport. Fearful for the group’s safety and unsure if they should relocate, a congregation leader of the group in the U.S., reached out to On Call International seeking advice and assistance.
On Call Steps In
When the leader reached out to On Call, our security team informed him that they were actively monitoring the social upheaval in Cusco. Our Global Security Specialists shared an initial assessment of the situation with the leader and discussed contingency strategies for the group. We advised that if they did not feel comfortable staying in Peru, we could assist with rescheduling their flights and arranging secure transportation to the airport.
After an in depth consultation with our Global Security Specialists, the leader was able to get a better handle on the situation. We told him that his constituents in Cusco were safe to shelter-in-place if they chose to do so, as they had secure accommodations and rations. Our Global Security Specialists implemented a communication schedule with the group and remained on standby to assist as necessary. We also confirmed the group had reliable, credible transportation resources lined up in case they needed to depart the Cusco area immediately. Regardless of their decision, we reassured the leader that our strategic partners in the region were on stand-by in the event conditions on the ground escalated further.
Tensions Dissipate
As a result of On Call’s advice and consultation, the leader and his constituents in Cusco ultimately decided to shelter-in-place as their accommodations were secure. We stated we would remain in close contact with the leader and his colleagues and would continue to check in periodically. Over the next few days, tension dissipated and normal public transportation, tourist services, and airport accessibility resumed. The leader and his team felt comfortable resuming their work in Cusco and were thankful to have On Call by their side during this stressful ordeal.
For over 25 years, On Call International has provided fully-customized travel risk management and global assistance services protecting millions of travelers, their families, and their organizations. Contact us today and watch our video to learn more. You can also stay in touch with On Call’s in-house risk management, travel health and security experts by signing up for our quarterly Travel Risk Management (TRM) newsletter.
