TNAG-0652-FCO40-801-Planning-Staff-papers-on-human-rights-and-foreign-policy-cou-1977 — Page 111

CONFIDENTIAL

IVORY COAST

Report by HM Embassy, Abidjan.

Right No.

(i)

(ii)

Rating Suggested

by Fost

All criminals are brought to trial. "Political" prisoners, though not classed as such, number probably not more than 30 to 40 and receive, it is believed, some kind of summary trial though not a public one.

Police brutality, but not torture usually in the case of petty criminals - is not

uncommon.

3

ろ

(iii)

There is no slavery.

(iv)

All media (television, radio and press) are state controlled and strictly follow the party line. Freedom of speech is not restricted, though extremely few words of dissent are voiced.

O

4

(v)

The judiciary is entirely independent.

О

(vi)

All trade unions are affiliated to the Solozi Party (PDCI - RDA) which they staunchly support.

3

(vii)

There is no restriction on emigration.

C

CONFIDENTIAL