20 July 2007

Press Release
PKO/166 





Department of Public Information • News and Media Division • New York
United Nations suspends Côte d’Ivoire peacekeeping contingent; full investigation

of sexual exploitation allegations under way
 

An internal investigation by the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI) has revealed serious allegations of widespread sexual exploitation and abuse by a United Nations military contingent serving in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire.  A full investigation by the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) is under way, but due to the serious nature of the allegations, the United Nations has taken the decision to suspend all activities of the contingent and has cantoned the unit within its base of operations.  The United Nations reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse and stresses its determination to work with our troop- and police-contributing countries to ensure that all United Nations personnel are held accountable to the highest standards of behaviour.

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For information media • not an official record