CONFIDENTIAL
GABON
Report by HM Embassy, Yaoundé.
General Observations
With a booming economy and politically docile popula- tion, Gabon is politically stable and appears to have few problems of political discontent. In so far as this exists President Bongo's inclination is to buy off opponents rather than imprison them. In general therefore human rights are not a serious issue and the situation is good.
Right No.
(i)
(ii)
Rating suggested
There is very little imprisonment without trial. There are perhaps 4 - 5 long-term political prisoners, although shorter term arrests for political reasons and without trial take place.
Torture is probably not used.
(iii) Slavery does not exist.
by Post
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поо
(iv)
All press, radio and television are official. However, so long as the Head of State and other leading personalities are not attacked there is reasonable freedom of criticism.
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(v))
The judiciary does not appear to be used as an instrument of political control and functions independently.
(vi)
Only one trades union movement is permitted. This is weak and does not appear to be able to stop unofficial strikes.
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(vii) In view of the large number of jobs open,
hardly any Gabonese wish to emigrate. Should they wish to do so an exit permit would be necessary and its granting would probably depend on President Bongo's whim.
CONFIDENTIAL
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