Australian Government condemns violence in Côte d'Ivoire

Media release

Canberra

4 April 2011

The Australian Government is gravely concerned about the deteriorating security situation in Côte d'Ivoire. Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd condemns in the strongest terms all acts of intimidation, incitement and human rights abuses, and calls for those responsible for acts of violence to be held accountable for their actions.

“The Australian Government is appalled by human rights abuses and recent loss of life in Côte d'Ivoire. It is imperative that all parties bring an end to this violence,” said Mr Rudd.

"The significant loss of life in Duékoué over recent days is particularly shocking.”

The Australian Government strongly supports United Nations Security Council Resolution 1975 of 30 March, calling for all parties to respect the will of the people as expressed through the election of Alassane Ouattara as President, and imposing travel and financial sanctions on Laurent Gbagbo and some of his associates.

“Laurent Gbagbo needs to step aside immediately,” said Mr Rudd.

The Australian Government has provided $2 million to the UNHCR to support Ivorian refugees in Liberia, and a further $3 million to the United Nations Emergency Humanitarian Plan in response to the crisis.

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