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WEST AFRICA

UN says refugee exploitation is serious, but not widespread
A U.N. investigation department says it cannot substantiate allegations that sexual exploitation of refugee children is widespread. It agrees they are vulnerable and has implemented new prevention measures, but says there is no evidence that the problem is extensive, or that it regularly involves aid workers, although Save the Children continues to disagree.

Ivory Coast mutiny sounds alarm bells for region
An armed rebellion in Ivory Coast has shaken West Africa and quick action is needed to prevent what was once known as a model of stability in the continent descending into the same chaos as its neighbours. However, no one really knows what to do, writes Thalia Griffiths.

Liberia's Taylor undermines regional peace drive
The international community needs to act swiftly if the gains from the Sierra Leone peace process are not to be lost through Liberia’s instability, writes Thalia Griffiths.

Agencies tackle endemic sexual exploitation of refugees
A shocking report that sexual exploitation of refugee children in exchange for aid is more extensive in West Africa than was realised has motivated humanitarian organisations to improve measures for protecting the vulnerable. Ruth Gidley reports on how the agencies plan to tackle a difficult subject.

Peace on track, but Sierra Leone will need help
Sierra Leone is seeing a revival of politics as it prepares for presidential and parliamentary elections in May, designed to mark its return to civilian rule and the end of a decade of civil war. Rebels have been disarmed and refugees are returning home, but the country still faces huge challenges and will need international support for years to come, writes Thalia Griffiths.

Features

31 Oct 2002
Humanitarian action does not depend on media coverage
Humanitarian specialists and journalists last week challenged the view that media attention is the strongest factor in determining levels of aid, Ruth Gidley reports from a Copenhagen conference.

25 Oct 2002
UN says refugee exploitation is serious, but not widespread
A U.N. investigation department says it cannot substantiate allegations that sexual exploitation of refugee children is widespread. It agrees they are vulnerable and has implemented new prevention measures, but says there is no evidence that the problem is extensive, or that it regularly involves aid workers, although Save the Children continues to disagree.

12 Jul 2002
African human rights panels mostly disappointing
Binaifer Nowrojee is a counsel with Human Rights Watch's Africa division and author and editor of the report "Protectors or Pretenders? Government Human Rights Commissions in Africa". She asks whether human rights activists should greet the proliferation of national human rights commissions with suspicion or approval.

05 Apr 2002
Sex scandal shows up issues sector must tackle
AlertNet member People In Aid is an international network of agencies promoting better management and support of people working in aid and development. Its executive director Jonathan Potter writes that exposure of the sexual exploitation of refugees in West Africa illustrates the need for stronger management systems that will enhance the impact made by relief organisations.

18 Feb 2002
Baptist World Aid: it's the community that counts
Baptist World Aid is currently working with Hungarian partners to help Afghan refugees living in Pakistan. From its headquarters outside Washington, director Paul Montacute spoke to Lauren Pollock about these activities and others in Belize and North Korea.

Last updated:Sat Dec 19 03:54:27 2009