Social cohesion, political tolerance and non-violence during elections were the main sensitization topics at a training workshop for youth leaders in Boundiali on 14 September 2015.



The activity organized by the regional office of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) in Korhogo was organized as part of the Mission's sensitization caravan known as ONUCI Tour.



Speaking at the event, UNOCI's Deputy Coordinator in Korhogo, Abdulai Baako, urged young people to do their utmost to ensure a peaceful electoral environment. "In every election there are winners and losers and there are some basic rules to follow; including the possibility for all candidates to conduct their campaigns anywhere, safely, without intimidation or hindrance," he said.



The president of the Boundiali Urban Youths, Zanao Koné, for his part, said that he would do his best to contribute to ensuring that the democratic rules are respected in order to help a smooth organization of the elections in the department. "We urge our colleagues to get together in every neighbourhood to sensitize the population on peaceful and secure elections", he said.



During the meeting, UNOCI's Public Information Office, Civil Affairs Section, United Nations Police (UNPOL) and military observers, explained their respective role in the electoral process.



After the presentations, participants asked for the sensitization of political leaders. They also asked that particular emphasis be placed on the safety of agents from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) as well as security at polling stations.