The following information was provided during a 10 May 2004 telephone interview with the permanent secretary of the Ivorian Human Rights League (Ligue ivoirienne des droits de l'homme, LIDHO), affiliated with the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH).

During 2004, the LIDHO had not heard of even one case in which a Lebanese citizen had been targeted by any of the forces in Côte d'Ivoire. The Lebanese community generally lives in harmony with the Ivorian population, a melting pot of various ethnic groups.

However, given that Lebanese citizens control most of the commerce in Côte d'Ivoire and that conditions in the country are currently unstable and unfavourable for trade, many Lebanese prefer to leave the country. Because of the prevailing instability in Côte d'Ivoire, Lebanese citizens, like other people who are considered wealthy (Ivorians or foreigners), are often the victims of crimes, such as theft and hold-ups.

This information could not be corroborated by the other sources consulted by the Research Directorate within the time constraints for this Response.

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the Research Directorate within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum. Please find below the list of additional sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

Ligue ivoirienne de défense des droits de l'homme (LIDHO), Abidjan. 10 May 2004. Telephone interview with the permanent secretary.

Publications: Africa Confidential, Africa Research Bulletin, Jeune Afrique/L'Intelligent, Keesing's Record of World Events, Resource Centre country file, West Africa.

Internet sites, including: Africatime, AllAfrica, Amnesty International, Dialog, FIDH, Fraternité Matin, HRW, Libération, MISNA, Le Monde, Notre Voie, Le Patriote, ReliefWeb, United Nations.