A Jeune Afrique/L'Intelligent article indicated that homosexuality is punishable by law in most African countries, [translation] "with the notable exception of Côte d'Ivoire and South Africa," and so, per the same article, homosexuality is not a crime in Côte d'Ivoire (4 Sept. 2005). In describing the predominant atmosphere in Abidjan [the largest city in Côte d'Ivoire], the same article noted that [translation] "it is no longer surprising to see two men or two women strolling hand in hand or exchanging loving glances in public. Gay bars and saunas operate alongside heterosexual clubs in perfect indifference. Coming out has become the new 'trend'" (Jeune Afrique/L'Intelligent 4 Sept. 2005).

An article appearing on Behind the Mask, a Website dedicated to issues facing gays and lesbians in Africa, acknowledged that

[translation]

South Africa and Côte d'Ivoire are the only African countries to accept homosexuality. Their respective capitals, Johannesburg and Yamoussoukro, are perfect examples, wherein the "abnormals" blend in. Gay bars and saunas have existed alongside heterosexual clubs for some time, and it is not unusual to see men or women holding hands or kissing each other passionately on the street, to the displeasure of passers-by (May 2000).

However, according to a brief posted on the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) Website, a homosexual of Nigerian origin, active in the gay community in Côte d'Ivoire, died from injuries following a beating by five youths whom he refused to pay for sex (30 Apr. 2005). According to the same brief, the victim met the youths in a [translation] "pick-up joint likewise frequented by homosexuals and other people from different levels of society" (IDAHO 30 Apr. 2005).

Further information on the general public's treatment of homosexuals could not be found among the sources consulted by the Research Directorate, nor could information on their treatment by government authorities.

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 for refugee protection. Please find below the list of additional sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

Behind the Mask. May 2000. "L'homosexualité en Afrique." http://www.mask.org.za/SECTIONS/AfricaPerCountry/ABC/all%20africa/all%20africa%20french%201.htm [Accessed 9 Sept. 2005]

International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO). 30 April 2005. "L'homophobie a encore frappé!" http://www.idahomophobia.org/breve.php3?id_breve=1 [Accessed 9 Sept. 2005]

Jeune Afrique/L'Intelligent [Paris]. 4 September 2005. Alex Siewe. "Intolérance sans frontières." http://www.lintelligent.com/gabarits/articleJAI_online.asp?art_cle=LIN04095intolseritn0 [Accessed 9 Sept. 2005]

Publications: Africa Confidential, Africa Research Bulletin, Resource Centre country file.

Internet sites, including: Afrik.com, Afrol News, AllAfrica, Amnesty International (AI), ECOI.net, Freedom House, Human Rights Watch (HRW), FIDH, International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC), International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA), IRIN.