WYD 2011 - Young woman wrapped with U.S. flagWhen traveling for World Youth Day 2019, all pilgrims should be incredibly conscious of security and safety issues. The following information provides some resources for pilgrims and their families, group leaders, and parish and diocesan authorities regarding the safety of all World Youth Day pilgrims while abroad.

Safety Updates

To be announced!

Safety and Security Resources for WYD 2022

The sun sets over World Youth Day pilgrims as Pope Francis attends a July 30 prayer vigil at the Field of Mercy in Krakow, Poland. (CNS photo/Bob Roller)

The U.S. State Department continuously updates travelers on advisories and provides resources for safety while traveling outside of the country. 

The Centers for Disease Control recommends being up-to-date on all routine vaccinations. Consult the CDC's website for further information.

If you have any questions or concerns about safety, please feel free to contact the WYDUSA office by phone, 202-541-3044, or email, wyd@usccb.org. You can also follow us on Twitter or Facebook to receive the most recent updates about resources concerning pilgrim safety.

Tips for Personal Safety and Security

  • Always travel in a group. Traveling alone creates a personal safety risk. Group leaders should know exactly where their pilgrims are at all times.
  • Exercise extreme caution when walking and crossing streets. Please use designated crosswalks and be mindful of fast-moving, heavy traffic.
  • Do not leave your valuables at your lodging site or hotel.
  • Inquire about fire safety procedures at your lodging site.
  • Do not make jokes or threats about weapons, bombs, or dangerous acts.
  • Do not venture out, especially alone as well as in groups, at night.
  • Stay close to official WYD event locations; do not veer outside those boundaries.
  • Please report anything suspicious to the local authorities and WYD staff.
  • If you are lost or in the event of an emergency, seek out World Youth Day security and volunteers - or contact the local municipal authorities/police.

Proper Identification

While abroad, it is important that you carry a picture ID such as an original passport or a scanned color copy.

Pilgrims should also be sure to keep their Registration Certificate with them for the duration of their trip. This certificate with the ecclesial stamp and signature is important, because it verifies your status as a WYD pilgrim.

Creating a Safe Environment

At WYD, there will be thousands of group leaders, trained volunteers, and staff on hand to ensure safety and security.

WYD greeters and security personnel will be at the entrances to all events. Each pilgrim must have valid WYD credentials (i.e. pilgrim badges and registration certificate) for entry. Also, due to the high volume of pilgrims, please plan for additional wait times in your schedule for the lines to enter events.

Backpacks, Bags, and Purses
Traditionally, many pilgrims carry a backpack throughout WYD. As a result, pilgrims and group leaders are encouraged to travel light. If possible, try to carry only those items you will need for that day. Please do not leave your backpack unattended, for any reason.

Emergency Exit
If emergency evacuation is necessary, please follow the instructions of police, security personnel, WYD volunteers, and/or any of the public announcements.

In the unlikely event of widespread sustained crisis, each group leader should have a designated a crisis check-in location. Report to this location, if instructed to do so by security, law enforcement, or event personnel.