Côte d’Ivoire tensions

This item appears on page 65 of the August 2010 issue.

Since a 2002 failed coup attempt, Côte d’Ivoire has been a divided country with two distinct military/peacekeeping forces. Despite an accord, elections have been postponed repeatedly. The US Department of State urges travelers to exercise caution, especially outside Abidjan. Political unrest could escalate into violence.

In early February, the government began rolling power cuts throughout the country, the first in over 15 years, which may add to the tension. In Abidjan, there is high risk of crimes such as mugging, robbery, burglary and carjacking.