| DJIBOUTI Republic of Djibouti Republique de Djibouti/Jumhuriyat Jibuti Joined United Nations: 20 September 1977 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 07/21/09 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Djibouti
516,055 (July 2009 est.)
Ismail Omar Guelleh
President since 8 May 1999
President since 8 May 1999
President elected by popular vote for a six-year term (eligible
for a second term); election last held 8 April 2005
Next scheduled election: April 2011
for a second term); election last held 8 April 2005
Next scheduled election: April 2011
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Mohamed Dileita Dileita
Prime Minister since 4 March 2001
Prime Minister since 4 March 2001
Prime minister appointed by the president
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Somali 60%, Afar 35%, French, Arab, Ethiopian, and Italian 5%
| RELIGIONS |
Muslim 94%, Christian 6%
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Republic comprised of 6 districts (cercles, singular - cercle). Legal system is based on French civil law system, traditional
practices, and Islamic law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a six-year term (eligible for a second term); Prime minister appointed by
the president; election last held 8 April 2005 (next to be held by April 2011)
Legislative: Unicameral Chamber of Deputies or Chambre des Deputes (65 seats; members elected by popular vote for
five-year terms)
elections: last held 8 February 2008 (next to be held 2013)
Judicial: Supreme Court or Cour Supreme
practices, and Islamic law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive: President elected by popular vote for a six-year term (eligible for a second term); Prime minister appointed by
the president; election last held 8 April 2005 (next to be held by April 2011)
Legislative: Unicameral Chamber of Deputies or Chambre des Deputes (65 seats; members elected by popular vote for
five-year terms)
elections: last held 8 February 2008 (next to be held 2013)
Judicial: Supreme Court or Cour Supreme
| LANGUAGES |
French (official), Arabic (official), Somali, Afar
| BRIEF HISTORY |
The Republic of Djibouti gained its independence on June 27, 1977. It is the successor to French Somaliland (later called
the French Territory of the Afars and Issas), which was created in the first half of the 19th century as a result of French
interest in the Horn of Africa. However, the history of Djibouti, recorded in poetry and songs of its nomadic peoples, goes
back thousands of years to a time when Djiboutians traded hides and skins for the perfumes and spices of ancient Egypt,
India, and China. Through close contacts with the Arabian peninsula for more than 1,000 years, the Somali and Afar tribes
in this region became among the first on the African continent to adopt Islam. It was Rochet d'Hericourt's exploration into
Shoa (1839-42) that marked the beginning of French interest in the African shores of the Red Sea. Further exploration by
Henri Lambert, French Consular Agent at Aden, and Captain Fleuriot de Langle led to a treaty of friendship and assistance
between France and the sultans of Raheita, Tadjoura, and Gobaad, from whom the French purchased the anchorage of
Obock in 1862. Growing French interest in the area took place against a backdrop of British activity in Egypt and the
opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. In 1884-85, France expanded its protectorate to include the shores of the Gulf of
Tadjoura and the Somaliland, installing Léonce Lagarde as governor of this protectorate. Boundaries of the protectorate,
marked out in 1897 by France and Emperor Menelik II of Ethiopia, were reaffirmed by agreements with Emperor Haile
Selassie I of Ethiopia in 1945 and 1954. The administrative capital was moved from Obock to Djibouti in 1896. Djibouti,
which has a good natural harbor and ready access to the Ethiopian highlands, attracted trade caravans crossing East Africa
as well as Somali settlers from the south. The Franco-Ethiopian railway, linking Djibouti to the heart of Ethiopia, was begun
in 1897 and reached Addis Ababa in June 1917, increasing the volume of trade passing through the port. During the Italian
invasion and occupation of Ethiopia in the 1930s and during World War II, constant border skirmishes occurred between
French and Italian forces. The area was ruled by the Vichy (French) government from the fall of France until December
1942, and fell under British blockade during that period. Free French and the Allied forces recaptured Djibouti at the end of
1942. A local battalion from Djibouti participated in the liberation of France in 1944. On July 22, 1957, the colony was
reorganized to give the people considerable self-government. On the same day, a decree applying the Overseas Reform Act
(Loi Cadre) of June 23, 1956, established a territorial assembly that elected eight of its members to an executive council.
Members of the executive council were responsible for one or more of the territorial services and carried the title of minister.
The council advised the French-appointed governor general. In a September 1958 constitutional referendum, French
Somaliland opted to join the French community as an overseas territory. This act entitled the region to representation by one
deputy and one senator in the French Parliament, and one counselor in the French Union Assembly. The first elections to the
territorial assembly were held on November 23, 1958, under a system of proportional representation. In the next assembly
elections (1963), a new electoral law was enacted. Representation was abolished in exchange for a system of straight
plurality vote based on lists submitted by political parties in seven designated districts. Ali Aref Bourhan, allegedly of Turkish
origin, was selected to be the president of the executive council. French President Charles de Gaulle's August 1966 visit to
Djibouti was marked by 2 days of public demonstrations by Somalis demanding independence. On September 21, 1966,
Louis Saget, appointed governor general of the territory after the demonstrations, announced the French Government's
decision to hold a referendum to determine whether the people would remain within the French Republic or become
independent. In March 1967, 60% chose to continue the territory's association with France. In July of that year, a directive
from Paris formally changed the name of the region to the French Territory of the Afars and Issas. The directive also
reorganized the governmental structure of the territory, making the senior French representative, formerly the governor
general, a high commissioner. In addition, the executive council was redesignated as the council of government, with nine
members.In 1975, the French Government began to accommodate increasingly insistent demands for independence. In June
1976, the territory's citizenship law, which favored the Afar minority, was revised to reflect more closely the weight of the
Issa Somali. The electorate voted for independence in a May 1977 referendum, and the Republic of Djibouti was
established June that same year. Hassan Gouled Aptidon became the country's first president. In 1981, Aptidon turned the
country into a one party state by declaring that his party, the Rassemblement Populaire pour le Progrès (RPP) (People's
Rally for Progress), was the sole legal one. A civil war broke out in 1991, between the government and a predominantly
Afar rebel group, the Front for the Restoration of Unity and Democracy (FRUD). The FRUD signed a peace accord with
the government in December 1994, ending the conflict. Two FRUD members were made cabinet members, and in the
presidential elections of 1999 the FRUD campaigned in support of the RPP. Aptidon resigned as president 1999, at the age
of 83, after being elected to a fifth term in 1997. His successor was his nephew, Ismail Omar Guelleh. On May 12, 2001,
President Ismail Omar Guelleh presided over the signing of what is termed the final peace accord officially ending the
decade-long civil war between the government and the armed faction of the FRUD. The peace accord successfully
completed the peace process begun on February 7, 2000 in Paris. Ahmed Dini Ahmed represented the FRUD.
Sources: Wikipedia History of Djibouti
the French Territory of the Afars and Issas), which was created in the first half of the 19th century as a result of French
interest in the Horn of Africa. However, the history of Djibouti, recorded in poetry and songs of its nomadic peoples, goes
back thousands of years to a time when Djiboutians traded hides and skins for the perfumes and spices of ancient Egypt,
India, and China. Through close contacts with the Arabian peninsula for more than 1,000 years, the Somali and Afar tribes
in this region became among the first on the African continent to adopt Islam. It was Rochet d'Hericourt's exploration into
Shoa (1839-42) that marked the beginning of French interest in the African shores of the Red Sea. Further exploration by
Henri Lambert, French Consular Agent at Aden, and Captain Fleuriot de Langle led to a treaty of friendship and assistance
between France and the sultans of Raheita, Tadjoura, and Gobaad, from whom the French purchased the anchorage of
Obock in 1862. Growing French interest in the area took place against a backdrop of British activity in Egypt and the
opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. In 1884-85, France expanded its protectorate to include the shores of the Gulf of
Tadjoura and the Somaliland, installing Léonce Lagarde as governor of this protectorate. Boundaries of the protectorate,
marked out in 1897 by France and Emperor Menelik II of Ethiopia, were reaffirmed by agreements with Emperor Haile
Selassie I of Ethiopia in 1945 and 1954. The administrative capital was moved from Obock to Djibouti in 1896. Djibouti,
which has a good natural harbor and ready access to the Ethiopian highlands, attracted trade caravans crossing East Africa
as well as Somali settlers from the south. The Franco-Ethiopian railway, linking Djibouti to the heart of Ethiopia, was begun
in 1897 and reached Addis Ababa in June 1917, increasing the volume of trade passing through the port. During the Italian
invasion and occupation of Ethiopia in the 1930s and during World War II, constant border skirmishes occurred between
French and Italian forces. The area was ruled by the Vichy (French) government from the fall of France until December
1942, and fell under British blockade during that period. Free French and the Allied forces recaptured Djibouti at the end of
1942. A local battalion from Djibouti participated in the liberation of France in 1944. On July 22, 1957, the colony was
reorganized to give the people considerable self-government. On the same day, a decree applying the Overseas Reform Act
(Loi Cadre) of June 23, 1956, established a territorial assembly that elected eight of its members to an executive council.
Members of the executive council were responsible for one or more of the territorial services and carried the title of minister.
The council advised the French-appointed governor general. In a September 1958 constitutional referendum, French
Somaliland opted to join the French community as an overseas territory. This act entitled the region to representation by one
deputy and one senator in the French Parliament, and one counselor in the French Union Assembly. The first elections to the
territorial assembly were held on November 23, 1958, under a system of proportional representation. In the next assembly
elections (1963), a new electoral law was enacted. Representation was abolished in exchange for a system of straight
plurality vote based on lists submitted by political parties in seven designated districts. Ali Aref Bourhan, allegedly of Turkish
origin, was selected to be the president of the executive council. French President Charles de Gaulle's August 1966 visit to
Djibouti was marked by 2 days of public demonstrations by Somalis demanding independence. On September 21, 1966,
Louis Saget, appointed governor general of the territory after the demonstrations, announced the French Government's
decision to hold a referendum to determine whether the people would remain within the French Republic or become
independent. In March 1967, 60% chose to continue the territory's association with France. In July of that year, a directive
from Paris formally changed the name of the region to the French Territory of the Afars and Issas. The directive also
reorganized the governmental structure of the territory, making the senior French representative, formerly the governor
general, a high commissioner. In addition, the executive council was redesignated as the council of government, with nine
members.In 1975, the French Government began to accommodate increasingly insistent demands for independence. In June
1976, the territory's citizenship law, which favored the Afar minority, was revised to reflect more closely the weight of the
Issa Somali. The electorate voted for independence in a May 1977 referendum, and the Republic of Djibouti was
established June that same year. Hassan Gouled Aptidon became the country's first president. In 1981, Aptidon turned the
country into a one party state by declaring that his party, the Rassemblement Populaire pour le Progrès (RPP) (People's
Rally for Progress), was the sole legal one. A civil war broke out in 1991, between the government and a predominantly
Afar rebel group, the Front for the Restoration of Unity and Democracy (FRUD). The FRUD signed a peace accord with
the government in December 1994, ending the conflict. Two FRUD members were made cabinet members, and in the
presidential elections of 1999 the FRUD campaigned in support of the RPP. Aptidon resigned as president 1999, at the age
of 83, after being elected to a fifth term in 1997. His successor was his nephew, Ismail Omar Guelleh. On May 12, 2001,
President Ismail Omar Guelleh presided over the signing of what is termed the final peace accord officially ending the
decade-long civil war between the government and the armed faction of the FRUD. The peace accord successfully
completed the peace process begun on February 7, 2000 in Paris. Ahmed Dini Ahmed represented the FRUD.
Sources: Wikipedia History of Djibouti
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
The economy is based on service activities connected with the country's strategic location and status as a free trade zone in
the Horn of Africa. Two-thirds of Djibouti's inhabitants live in the capital city; the remainder are mostly nomadic herders.
Scanty rainfall limits crop production to fruits and vegetables, and most food must be imported. Djibouti provides services as
both a transit port for the region and an international transshipment and refueling center. Imports and exports from
landlocked neighbor Ethiopia represent 85% of port activity at Djibouti's container terminal. Djibouti has few natural
resources and little industry. The nation is, therefore, heavily dependent on foreign assistance to help support its balance of
payments and to finance development projects. An unemployment rate of nearly 60% in urban areas continues to be a major
problem. While inflation is not a concern, due to the fixed tie of the Djiboutian franc to the US dollar, the artificially high
value of the Djiboutian franc adversely affects Djibouti's balance of payments. Per capita consumption dropped an estimated
35% between 1999 and 2006 because of recession, civil war, and a high population growth rate (including immigrants and
refugees). Faced with a multitude of economic difficulties, the government has fallen in arrears on long-term external debt
and has been struggling to meet the stipulations of foreign aid donors.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Djibouti)
the Horn of Africa. Two-thirds of Djibouti's inhabitants live in the capital city; the remainder are mostly nomadic herders.
Scanty rainfall limits crop production to fruits and vegetables, and most food must be imported. Djibouti provides services as
both a transit port for the region and an international transshipment and refueling center. Imports and exports from
landlocked neighbor Ethiopia represent 85% of port activity at Djibouti's container terminal. Djibouti has few natural
resources and little industry. The nation is, therefore, heavily dependent on foreign assistance to help support its balance of
payments and to finance development projects. An unemployment rate of nearly 60% in urban areas continues to be a major
problem. While inflation is not a concern, due to the fixed tie of the Djiboutian franc to the US dollar, the artificially high
value of the Djiboutian franc adversely affects Djibouti's balance of payments. Per capita consumption dropped an estimated
35% between 1999 and 2006 because of recession, civil war, and a high population growth rate (including immigrants and
refugees). Faced with a multitude of economic difficulties, the government has fallen in arrears on long-term external debt
and has been struggling to meet the stipulations of foreign aid donors.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Djibouti)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
Currently, political power is shared by a Somali president and an Afar prime minister, with cabinet posts roughly divided.
However, it is the Issas who presently dominate the government, civil service, and the ruling party, a situation that has bred
resentment and political competition between the Somali Issas and the Afars. In early November 1991, civil war erupted in
Djibouti between the government and a predominantly Afar rebel group, the Front for the Restoration of Unity and
Democracy (FRUD). The FRUD signed a peace accord with the government in December 1994, ending the conflict. Two
FRUD members were made cabinet members, and in the presidential elections of 1999 the FRUD campaigned in support of
the RPP. In February 2000, another branch of FRUD signed a peace accord with the government. On 12 May 2001,
President Ismail Omar Guelleh presided over the signing of what is termed the final peace accord officially ending the
decade-long civil war between the government and the armed faction of the FRUD. The peace accord successfully
completed the peace process begun on 7 February 2000 in Paris. Ahmed Dini Ahmed represented the FRUD.
Djibouti has its own armed forces, including a small army, which has grown significantly since the start of the civil war. In
recent years the armed force has downsized and with the peace accord with the FRUD in 2001, the armed forces are
expected to continue its downsizing. The country's security also is supplemented by a special security arrangement with the
Government of France. France maintains one of its largest military bases outside France in Djibouti. There are some 2,600
French troops, which includes a unit of the French Foreign Legion, the 13th Foreign Legion Demi-Brigade, stationed in
Djibouti.
The right to own property is respected in Djibouti. The government has reorganized the labor unions. While there have been
open elections of union leaders, the Government of Djibouti is working with the ILO to hold new elections.
Although women in Djibouti enjoy a higher public status than in many other Islamic countries, women's rights and family
planning face difficult challenges, many stemming from poverty. Few women hold senior positions. Education of girls still lags
behind boys and, because of the high unemployment rate, employment opportunities are better for male applicants.
Sources: Wikipedia Politics of Djibouti
However, it is the Issas who presently dominate the government, civil service, and the ruling party, a situation that has bred
resentment and political competition between the Somali Issas and the Afars. In early November 1991, civil war erupted in
Djibouti between the government and a predominantly Afar rebel group, the Front for the Restoration of Unity and
Democracy (FRUD). The FRUD signed a peace accord with the government in December 1994, ending the conflict. Two
FRUD members were made cabinet members, and in the presidential elections of 1999 the FRUD campaigned in support of
the RPP. In February 2000, another branch of FRUD signed a peace accord with the government. On 12 May 2001,
President Ismail Omar Guelleh presided over the signing of what is termed the final peace accord officially ending the
decade-long civil war between the government and the armed faction of the FRUD. The peace accord successfully
completed the peace process begun on 7 February 2000 in Paris. Ahmed Dini Ahmed represented the FRUD.
Djibouti has its own armed forces, including a small army, which has grown significantly since the start of the civil war. In
recent years the armed force has downsized and with the peace accord with the FRUD in 2001, the armed forces are
expected to continue its downsizing. The country's security also is supplemented by a special security arrangement with the
Government of France. France maintains one of its largest military bases outside France in Djibouti. There are some 2,600
French troops, which includes a unit of the French Foreign Legion, the 13th Foreign Legion Demi-Brigade, stationed in
Djibouti.
The right to own property is respected in Djibouti. The government has reorganized the labor unions. While there have been
open elections of union leaders, the Government of Djibouti is working with the ILO to hold new elections.
Although women in Djibouti enjoy a higher public status than in many other Islamic countries, women's rights and family
planning face difficult challenges, many stemming from poverty. Few women hold senior positions. Education of girls still lags
behind boys and, because of the high unemployment rate, employment opportunities are better for male applicants.
Sources: Wikipedia Politics of Djibouti
Freedom In The World 2009 Report
Political Rights Score: 5
Civil Liberties Score: 5
Status: Partly Free
Overview
Legislative elections took place in February 2008, but the main opposition parties did not participate, citing government harassment
and manipulation of the electoral process. Border clashes erupted between Djibouti and Eritrea in June. Meanwhile, drought and
rising food prices combined to pose significant hardships for the majority of the population.
As president, Guelleh has used Djibouti’s strategic importance to generate international support and development assistance. The
country has granted foreign armed forces, particularly those of the United States, access to its port and airport facilities. Since
2004, approximately 2,000 U.S. military personnel have been stationed in Djibouti, alongside a similar number of French troops.
Guelleh has endorsed actions taken by the United States and its allies to combat terrorism. In March 2006, the United States and
Djibouti renewed their agreement on U.S. use of military facilities in the country, the only such arrangement in sub-Saharan Africa.
Djibouti’s only private newspaper was closed by the authorities in 2007 in the wake of a libel suit involving the president’s brother-
in-law. Legislative elections took place in March 2008, but the main opposition parties did not participate, citing government abuses
including the house arrest of opposition leaders and manipulation of the electoral process. In June, an Eritrean military incursion
across the poorly delineated border resulted in the deaths of about a dozen Djiboutian soldiers and the wounding of scores of others.
Drought and rising food prices combined to pose significant hardships for the majority of the population in 2008. With virtually no
industry and few natural resources, Djibouti is heavily dependent on foreign assistance. The port and transport sector accounts for
one-third of gross domestic product (GDP). Ethiopia is an important economic partner, with approximately 85 percent of the goods
moving through the port of Djibouti destined for Ethiopia. Two-thirds of the country’s inhabitants live in the capital city, and most
of the remainder are nomadic herders. Scant rainfall limits crop production, meaning most food must be imported. The UN
Population Fund has reported that more than 40 percent of the country’s residents live below the national poverty line, and a U.S.-
funded agency warned in September 2008 that the majority of the population was in need of emergency food aid.
Djibouti is not an electoral democracy. The formal existence of representative government and electoral processes have little
relevance to the real distribution and exercise of power. The ruling party has traditionally used the advantage of state resources to
maintain itself in government.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 5
Civil Liberties Score: 5
Status: Partly Free
Overview
Legislative elections took place in February 2008, but the main opposition parties did not participate, citing government harassment
and manipulation of the electoral process. Border clashes erupted between Djibouti and Eritrea in June. Meanwhile, drought and
rising food prices combined to pose significant hardships for the majority of the population.
As president, Guelleh has used Djibouti’s strategic importance to generate international support and development assistance. The
country has granted foreign armed forces, particularly those of the United States, access to its port and airport facilities. Since
2004, approximately 2,000 U.S. military personnel have been stationed in Djibouti, alongside a similar number of French troops.
Guelleh has endorsed actions taken by the United States and its allies to combat terrorism. In March 2006, the United States and
Djibouti renewed their agreement on U.S. use of military facilities in the country, the only such arrangement in sub-Saharan Africa.
Djibouti’s only private newspaper was closed by the authorities in 2007 in the wake of a libel suit involving the president’s brother-
in-law. Legislative elections took place in March 2008, but the main opposition parties did not participate, citing government abuses
including the house arrest of opposition leaders and manipulation of the electoral process. In June, an Eritrean military incursion
across the poorly delineated border resulted in the deaths of about a dozen Djiboutian soldiers and the wounding of scores of others.
Drought and rising food prices combined to pose significant hardships for the majority of the population in 2008. With virtually no
industry and few natural resources, Djibouti is heavily dependent on foreign assistance. The port and transport sector accounts for
one-third of gross domestic product (GDP). Ethiopia is an important economic partner, with approximately 85 percent of the goods
moving through the port of Djibouti destined for Ethiopia. Two-thirds of the country’s inhabitants live in the capital city, and most
of the remainder are nomadic herders. Scant rainfall limits crop production, meaning most food must be imported. The UN
Population Fund has reported that more than 40 percent of the country’s residents live below the national poverty line, and a U.S.-
funded agency warned in September 2008 that the majority of the population was in need of emergency food aid.
Djibouti is not an electoral democracy. The formal existence of representative government and electoral processes have little
relevance to the real distribution and exercise of power. The ruling party has traditionally used the advantage of state resources to
maintain itself in government.
Click here to read more »
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Djibouti maintains economic ties and border accords with "Somaliland" leadership while maintaining some political ties to
various factions in Somalia; Kuwait is chief investor in the 2008 restoration and upgrade of the Ethiopian-Djibouti rail link
various factions in Somalia; Kuwait is chief investor in the 2008 restoration and upgrade of the Ethiopian-Djibouti rail link
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
Refugees (country of origin): 8,642 (Somalia) (2007)
ERITREA (No specific report for Djibouti)
Events of 2008
Relations with Neighboring Countries
In early 2008 Eritrea launched border incursions against Djibouti. On June 10, the Eritrean military opened fire on Djiboutian troops
after Djibouti ignored an ultimatum to return Eritrean troops, including officers, who had deserted. The clash resulted in 35 deaths
and dozens of wounded, according to a UN investigation. Although the UN did not receive access to Eritrea to investigate the
incursions, it concluded that Eritrea was the aggressor.
Click here to read more »
Events of 2008
Relations with Neighboring Countries
In early 2008 Eritrea launched border incursions against Djibouti. On June 10, the Eritrean military opened fire on Djiboutian troops
after Djibouti ignored an ultimatum to return Eritrean troops, including officers, who had deserted. The clash resulted in 35 deaths
and dozens of wounded, according to a UN investigation. Although the UN did not receive access to Eritrea to investigate the
incursions, it concluded that Eritrea was the aggressor.
Click here to read more »
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
Current situation: Djibouti is a source, transit, and destination country for women and children trafficked for the purposes
of sexual exploitation and possibly forced labor; small numbers are trafficked from Ethiopia and Somalia for sexual
exploitation; economic migrants from these countries also fall victim to trafficking upon reaching Djibouti City or the
Ethiopia-Djibouti trucking corridor; women and children from neighboring countries reportedly transit Djibouti to Arab
countries and Somalia for ultimate use in forced labor or sexual exploitation
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Djibouti does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of
trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so based partly on the government's commitments to undertake
future action
of sexual exploitation and possibly forced labor; small numbers are trafficked from Ethiopia and Somalia for sexual
exploitation; economic migrants from these countries also fall victim to trafficking upon reaching Djibouti City or the
Ethiopia-Djibouti trucking corridor; women and children from neighboring countries reportedly transit Djibouti to Arab
countries and Somalia for ultimate use in forced labor or sexual exploitation
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Djibouti does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of
trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so based partly on the government's commitments to undertake
future action
PRESIDENT OF DJIBOUTI URGES SECURITY COUNCIL TO PRESS ERITREA ON ENDING BORDER
DISPUTE, SAYS ‘THE LAST THING THE HORN OF AFRICA NEEDS IS ANOTHER CONFLICT’
10 JUNE 2008
ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH, President of Djibouti, said Africa was at a crossroads. A number of countries were making progress
against all forecasts, thanks to better economic management and growing confidence of international investors. There was
unequalled economic growth and the current crisis might have minimal effects. However, high fuel and food prices made the
situation more complex. Djibouti was a small, peace-loving and progressive country that had been able to maintain its stability
even amid wars in the region.
The Horn of Africa had had more than its fair share of unhappiness, dislocation and destruction. The Council might take an in-
depth look at the areas of tension at a regional level, as it had done in West Africa. Here, he said Somalia, in particular, was in
ruins. The conflict there was not exclusively a Somali affair, and required international and transparent involvement to determine
once and for all the future of the nation.
Further, international attention to the piracy in Somalia was legitimate, but everyone should be aware that piracy was a symptom.
Half of the population needed humanitarian aid and suffered from displacement, drought and unemployment. The East African
region was committed to re-establishment of peace in Somalia and officials from neighbouring countries were set to meet in Nairobi
to address the forgotten crisis. At the same time, the Security Council had the primary responsibility to save Somalia from “its
decent into nightmare” and to take the decision that it was time to protect the people. Lack of action would have serious
consequences.
After the “sudden, inexplicable and ill-thought out occupation” of parts of his country by Eritrea, Djibouti had reacted with calm
that created time to solve the problem peacefully, he said. All efforts in that regard had been in vain, however, as Eritrean actions
continued on the ground. There was now no other choice than to mass troops at the border and defend the territory. The good
offices of the African Union, the Organization of the Islamic Conference and of the United Nations were being sought.
Eritrea continued to reinforce its troops, which carried out incursions. The international efforts had been rejected by Eritrea and
that country continued to provide incorrect and “arrogant” information. Following the 10 June armed conflict which had left
dozens of victims, the Council had condemned the Eritrean actions, he said. The Council had sent a fact-finding mission to
Djibouti, whose clear conclusions reflected the erratic and irresponsible behaviour of the Eritrean authorities. The Eritrea
authorities had simply alleged interference from abroad.
Click here to read more »
DISPUTE, SAYS ‘THE LAST THING THE HORN OF AFRICA NEEDS IS ANOTHER CONFLICT’
10 JUNE 2008
ISMAIL OMAR GUELLEH, President of Djibouti, said Africa was at a crossroads. A number of countries were making progress
against all forecasts, thanks to better economic management and growing confidence of international investors. There was
unequalled economic growth and the current crisis might have minimal effects. However, high fuel and food prices made the
situation more complex. Djibouti was a small, peace-loving and progressive country that had been able to maintain its stability
even amid wars in the region.
The Horn of Africa had had more than its fair share of unhappiness, dislocation and destruction. The Council might take an in-
depth look at the areas of tension at a regional level, as it had done in West Africa. Here, he said Somalia, in particular, was in
ruins. The conflict there was not exclusively a Somali affair, and required international and transparent involvement to determine
once and for all the future of the nation.
Further, international attention to the piracy in Somalia was legitimate, but everyone should be aware that piracy was a symptom.
Half of the population needed humanitarian aid and suffered from displacement, drought and unemployment. The East African
region was committed to re-establishment of peace in Somalia and officials from neighbouring countries were set to meet in Nairobi
to address the forgotten crisis. At the same time, the Security Council had the primary responsibility to save Somalia from “its
decent into nightmare” and to take the decision that it was time to protect the people. Lack of action would have serious
consequences.
After the “sudden, inexplicable and ill-thought out occupation” of parts of his country by Eritrea, Djibouti had reacted with calm
that created time to solve the problem peacefully, he said. All efforts in that regard had been in vain, however, as Eritrean actions
continued on the ground. There was now no other choice than to mass troops at the border and defend the territory. The good
offices of the African Union, the Organization of the Islamic Conference and of the United Nations were being sought.
Eritrea continued to reinforce its troops, which carried out incursions. The international efforts had been rejected by Eritrea and
that country continued to provide incorrect and “arrogant” information. Following the 10 June armed conflict which had left
dozens of victims, the Council had condemned the Eritrean actions, he said. The Council had sent a fact-finding mission to
Djibouti, whose clear conclusions reflected the erratic and irresponsible behaviour of the Eritrean authorities. The Eritrea
authorities had simply alleged interference from abroad.
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| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
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HUMAN RIGHTS
REPUBLIC OF DJIBOUTI
2008
Corruption and transparency in government
The law provides criminal penalties for corruption in the public service, but despite efforts, the government does not actually the
law and officials often engaged in acts of corruption with impunity. Indicators of governance in the world of the World Bank have
revealed that there was a serious problem of corruption in government.
The authorities have continued to take measures to combat corruption. In June 2007, two judges were dismissed for corruption
after investigations by the Bureau of National Accounts. In 2006, the Director of social-welfare agency was charged with
corruption, jailed and then dismissed.
The privatization of ports, airports and customs continued to cause a significant increase in transparency and the income of the
State in one of the most important sectors of the economy. The Chamber of Accounts and Budgetary Discipline and the General
Inspectorate of the State have conducted audits of public expenditure to fight against corruption and promote transparency.
Officials are not subject to the laws of disclosure of financial information. The Inspectorate General of the State and the Chamber
of Accounts and budget discipline are organs of government in the fight against corruption.
No law provides that the public has access to information held by the state, although the laws have been made publicly available by
the online publication of the gazette and the Djiboutians have been filing requests for information or mediation with the Office of the
Ombudsman.
Section 4: Attitude of Government investigations and international NGOs on violations of human rights
Some national defense of human rights were on the whole work without restriction from the government: they have conducted
investigations and sometimes limited published findings on a number of cases relating to rights man. In general, government
officials have ignored their opinions.
Jean-Paul Noël Abdi, the chairman of the Djibouti League of Human Rights (LDDH), a local group Defense of Human Rights, was
tried for libel in 2007 after writing information on rape presumption of a young girl by a member of the Republican Guard and what
he called a mass grave containing victims of summary executions during the 1992 civil war in 2000. He was fined and imprisoned,
but was released a month later because of health problems. In December 2007, Noël Abdi accused the state of having arbitrarily
arrested and detained for questioning for more than 12 hours after he issued a press release from the LDDH criticizing the
government. Noël Abdi has appealed his conviction in 2007 and was awaiting a hearing of the Supreme Court at the end of the year.
The ICRC had a small office or work of local staff. The ICRC regional representative based in Nairobi visited the country every
month.
In April, the government established a Commission on Human Rights, whose members include technical experts and representatives
of civil society, trade unions, religious groups, the judiciary, the office of the Ombudsman and the National Assembly.
The Ombudsman was also a member of parliament and its specific responsibilities included mediation between NGOs and the state.
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HUMAN RIGHTS
REPUBLIC OF DJIBOUTI
2008
Corruption and transparency in government
The law provides criminal penalties for corruption in the public service, but despite efforts, the government does not actually the
law and officials often engaged in acts of corruption with impunity. Indicators of governance in the world of the World Bank have
revealed that there was a serious problem of corruption in government.
The authorities have continued to take measures to combat corruption. In June 2007, two judges were dismissed for corruption
after investigations by the Bureau of National Accounts. In 2006, the Director of social-welfare agency was charged with
corruption, jailed and then dismissed.
The privatization of ports, airports and customs continued to cause a significant increase in transparency and the income of the
State in one of the most important sectors of the economy. The Chamber of Accounts and Budgetary Discipline and the General
Inspectorate of the State have conducted audits of public expenditure to fight against corruption and promote transparency.
Officials are not subject to the laws of disclosure of financial information. The Inspectorate General of the State and the Chamber
of Accounts and budget discipline are organs of government in the fight against corruption.
No law provides that the public has access to information held by the state, although the laws have been made publicly available by
the online publication of the gazette and the Djiboutians have been filing requests for information or mediation with the Office of the
Ombudsman.
Section 4: Attitude of Government investigations and international NGOs on violations of human rights
Some national defense of human rights were on the whole work without restriction from the government: they have conducted
investigations and sometimes limited published findings on a number of cases relating to rights man. In general, government
officials have ignored their opinions.
Jean-Paul Noël Abdi, the chairman of the Djibouti League of Human Rights (LDDH), a local group Defense of Human Rights, was
tried for libel in 2007 after writing information on rape presumption of a young girl by a member of the Republican Guard and what
he called a mass grave containing victims of summary executions during the 1992 civil war in 2000. He was fined and imprisoned,
but was released a month later because of health problems. In December 2007, Noël Abdi accused the state of having arbitrarily
arrested and detained for questioning for more than 12 hours after he issued a press release from the LDDH criticizing the
government. Noël Abdi has appealed his conviction in 2007 and was awaiting a hearing of the Supreme Court at the end of the year.
The ICRC had a small office or work of local staff. The ICRC regional representative based in Nairobi visited the country every
month.
In April, the government established a Commission on Human Rights, whose members include technical experts and representatives
of civil society, trade unions, religious groups, the judiciary, the office of the Ombudsman and the National Assembly.
The Ombudsman was also a member of parliament and its specific responsibilities included mediation between NGOs and the state.
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2008 Human Rights Report: Djibouti
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2008 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
February 25, 2009
Djibouti is a republic with a strong elected president and a weak legislature. It has an estimated population of 660,000. In February
legislative elections, President Ismail Omar Guelleh's five‑party coalition won all 65 National Assembly seats. A three‑party
opposition coalition boycotted the race, which international observers from the African Union and the Arab League considered
generally free and fair. In June Eritrean troops exchanged fire with Djiboutian troops at Ras Doumeira peninsula, along the
Djibouti‑Eritrea border, and near the strategic Bab‑al‑Mandeb Strait between the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. At year's end
Eritrean troops continued to occupy the country's territory, despite condemnations by the United Nations, the Arab League, and the
African Union (AU). Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government's human rights record remained poor, although there were improvements. Serious problems included:
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2008 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
February 25, 2009
Djibouti is a republic with a strong elected president and a weak legislature. It has an estimated population of 660,000. In February
legislative elections, President Ismail Omar Guelleh's five‑party coalition won all 65 National Assembly seats. A three‑party
opposition coalition boycotted the race, which international observers from the African Union and the Arab League considered
generally free and fair. In June Eritrean troops exchanged fire with Djiboutian troops at Ras Doumeira peninsula, along the
Djibouti‑Eritrea border, and near the strategic Bab‑al‑Mandeb Strait between the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. At year's end
Eritrean troops continued to occupy the country's territory, despite condemnations by the United Nations, the Arab League, and the
African Union (AU). Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
The government's human rights record remained poor, although there were improvements. Serious problems included:
- difficult but improving prison conditions;
- corruption;
- official impunity;
- arbitrary arrest and detention;
- prolonged pretrial detention;
- interference with privacy rights;
- restrictions on freedom of the press, assembly, and association and restrictions unions.
- Female genital mutilation (FGM) remained a serious problem, although nongovernmental organization (NGO) and
government efforts led by the first lady began to have an effect, especially in Djibouti City.
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Of house arrest
President of the Djibouti League of Human Rights
1 February 2008
L'Observatoire for the protection of defenders of human rights, program spouse of the International Federation of Human Rights
(FIDH) and the World Organization against Torture (OMCT), requests you to intervene urgently on of the following situation in
Djibouti.
The Observatory has been informed from reliable sources the arrest of Mr. Jean-Paul Noël Abdi, chairman of Djibouti League of
Human Rights (LDDH).
According to information received, on 1 February 2008 to 11 hours, two people claiming the military Civil Noel Abdi prevented
from leaving his home without a warrant, and under the pretext that it was a general measure taken against opposition leaders and
their families. This measure seeks reality to impair the proper conduct of the opposition rally planned for that day as part of the
campaign for the legislative elections of 8 February 2008. Although Mr. Noël Abdi replied that they had not contemplated since he
was a member of any opposition party, the two members of the Armed Forces have served to await further instructions. In
addition, shortly after noon, two members of the Armed Forces were joined Six police anti-riot forces who surrounded the home of
Mr. Noël Abdi to prevent escape.
The Observatory condemns the arbitrary arrest, reflecting the authorities' Djibouti to equate defenders of human rights to political
opponents, and said that Mr. Christmas Abdi is particularly targeted because his commitment to human rights, as evidenced by the
prosecution which has been the subject in March 2007 and his detention in December 2007 [1].
The Observatory wishes to clarify that this general measure of house arrest is completely illegal and is in a broader context of
intimidation designed to silence voices critical of the regime in place [2] and to prevent, inter alia, the reporting of violations of
human rights in Djibouti.
Actions required:
The Observatory urges you to intervene with the authorities of Djibouti and ask them to:
i. Ensure in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity of Mr. Jean-Paul Noël Abdi;
ii. Put an end to all forms of harassment, including judicial, against him, and by all Defenders of Human Rights in Djibouti, so that
they can exercise their profession and conduct their business defense of human rights freely and without hindrance;
iii. Comply with the provisions of the Declaration on the Defenders of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations General
Assembly on 9 December 1998, particularly Article 1 which states:
"Everyone has the right, individually or in combination with others, to promote the protection and realization of human rights and
fundamental freedoms at the national and international levels ", Article 6 (b) that
"Everyone has the right, individually or in combination with others to publish, impart or disseminate to others freedom of ideas,
information and knowledge all known human rights and all freedoms core ", and Article 12.2, which states that" the State shall take
all necessary measures to ensure that protect the competent authorities of everyone, individually or in combination with others,
against any violence, threats, retaliation, de facto or de jure adverse discrimination, pressure or any other arbitrary action as part of
the legitimate exercise of rights referred to in the [...] Declaration ";
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Of house arrest
President of the Djibouti League of Human Rights
1 February 2008
L'Observatoire for the protection of defenders of human rights, program spouse of the International Federation of Human Rights
(FIDH) and the World Organization against Torture (OMCT), requests you to intervene urgently on of the following situation in
Djibouti.
The Observatory has been informed from reliable sources the arrest of Mr. Jean-Paul Noël Abdi, chairman of Djibouti League of
Human Rights (LDDH).
According to information received, on 1 February 2008 to 11 hours, two people claiming the military Civil Noel Abdi prevented
from leaving his home without a warrant, and under the pretext that it was a general measure taken against opposition leaders and
their families. This measure seeks reality to impair the proper conduct of the opposition rally planned for that day as part of the
campaign for the legislative elections of 8 February 2008. Although Mr. Noël Abdi replied that they had not contemplated since he
was a member of any opposition party, the two members of the Armed Forces have served to await further instructions. In
addition, shortly after noon, two members of the Armed Forces were joined Six police anti-riot forces who surrounded the home of
Mr. Noël Abdi to prevent escape.
The Observatory condemns the arbitrary arrest, reflecting the authorities' Djibouti to equate defenders of human rights to political
opponents, and said that Mr. Christmas Abdi is particularly targeted because his commitment to human rights, as evidenced by the
prosecution which has been the subject in March 2007 and his detention in December 2007 [1].
The Observatory wishes to clarify that this general measure of house arrest is completely illegal and is in a broader context of
intimidation designed to silence voices critical of the regime in place [2] and to prevent, inter alia, the reporting of violations of
human rights in Djibouti.
Actions required:
The Observatory urges you to intervene with the authorities of Djibouti and ask them to:
i. Ensure in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity of Mr. Jean-Paul Noël Abdi;
ii. Put an end to all forms of harassment, including judicial, against him, and by all Defenders of Human Rights in Djibouti, so that
they can exercise their profession and conduct their business defense of human rights freely and without hindrance;
iii. Comply with the provisions of the Declaration on the Defenders of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations General
Assembly on 9 December 1998, particularly Article 1 which states:
"Everyone has the right, individually or in combination with others, to promote the protection and realization of human rights and
fundamental freedoms at the national and international levels ", Article 6 (b) that
"Everyone has the right, individually or in combination with others to publish, impart or disseminate to others freedom of ideas,
information and knowledge all known human rights and all freedoms core ", and Article 12.2, which states that" the State shall take
all necessary measures to ensure that protect the competent authorities of everyone, individually or in combination with others,
against any violence, threats, retaliation, de facto or de jure adverse discrimination, pressure or any other arbitrary action as part of
the legitimate exercise of rights referred to in the [...] Declaration ";
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7 October 2008
COMMITTEE ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
Forty-ninth session
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 44 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations: DJIBOUTI
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the State party’s second periodic report, as well as the written replies to its list of
issues (CRC/C/DJI/Q/2/Add.1) and appreciates the frank and constructive dialogue it was able to have with the high-level and
multisectoral delegation, which provided a better insight on the situation of children in the State party.
B. Follow-up measures and progress achieved by the State party
3. The Committee welcomes the adoption of:
(a) The Outline Act on the education system in August 2000;
(b) The Family Code in January 2002;
(c) The Law on the Labour Code in January 2006;
(d) Legislation on the organization of an anti-smoking campaign in January 2007;
(e) The Law on the protection of persons living with HIV/Aids, in April 2007; and
(f) The Law against trafficking in human beings in December 2007.
C. Main areas of concern and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation (arts.4, 42 and 44, paragraph 6 of the Convention)
The Committee’s Previous Recommendations
6. The Committee notes that several of the concerns and recommendations made upon consideration of the State party’s initial
report (CRC/C/15/Add.131) have been addressed at the national level. It nevertheless regrets that some of its concerns and
recommendations, including on such issues as independent monitoring, data collection, sexual exploitation and juvenile justice, have
not been adequately addressed.
7. The Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to address those recommendations from the concluding
observations on the initial report that have not yet been implemented or sufficiently implemented and to provide adequate follow-up
to the recommendations contained in the present concluding observations on the second periodic report.
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COMMITTEE ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD
Forty-ninth session
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 44 OF THE CONVENTION
Concluding observations: DJIBOUTI
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the State party’s second periodic report, as well as the written replies to its list of
issues (CRC/C/DJI/Q/2/Add.1) and appreciates the frank and constructive dialogue it was able to have with the high-level and
multisectoral delegation, which provided a better insight on the situation of children in the State party.
B. Follow-up measures and progress achieved by the State party
3. The Committee welcomes the adoption of:
(a) The Outline Act on the education system in August 2000;
(b) The Family Code in January 2002;
(c) The Law on the Labour Code in January 2006;
(d) Legislation on the organization of an anti-smoking campaign in January 2007;
(e) The Law on the protection of persons living with HIV/Aids, in April 2007; and
(f) The Law against trafficking in human beings in December 2007.
C. Main areas of concern and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation (arts.4, 42 and 44, paragraph 6 of the Convention)
The Committee’s Previous Recommendations
6. The Committee notes that several of the concerns and recommendations made upon consideration of the State party’s initial
report (CRC/C/15/Add.131) have been addressed at the national level. It nevertheless regrets that some of its concerns and
recommendations, including on such issues as independent monitoring, data collection, sexual exploitation and juvenile justice, have
not been adequately addressed.
7. The Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to address those recommendations from the concluding
observations on the initial report that have not yet been implemented or sufficiently implemented and to provide adequate follow-up
to the recommendations contained in the present concluding observations on the second periodic report.
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REPORT 2009 (Eritrea and Somalia)
State of the World's Human Rights
From February to April, Eritrea built up its forces in the long-disputed Ras Doumeira area along the Eritrea/Djibouti border, with
Djibouti claiming that Eritrea had encroached on its territory. Small-scale armed conflict between the two countries erupted in June.
At least 35 soldiers were reported killed and 50 injured.
Eritrea hosted the Asmara wing of the Alliance for the Re-Liberation of Somalia (ARS), which split off from a Djibouti-based ARS
wing. Eritrea provided and served as a transit point for weapons and ammunition sold in weapons markets in Somalia.
After the replacement in late 2007 of Prime Minister Mohamed Gedi by Nur Hassan Hussein and the appointment of a new UN
Special Representative to the Secretary-General, Ahmedou Ould-Abdullah, hope for progress in ending the conflict and
consolidating governance emerged, despite ongoing armed conflict. In April the TFG and ARS-Djibouti began negotiations. They
signed a formal agreement in October, which included plans for a ceasefire, power-sharing and gradual Ethiopian troop withdrawal,
which began in November. At the October meeting in Djibouti, TFG and ARS representatives also jointly called for a Commission
of Inquiry into human rights abuses in Somalia.
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State of the World's Human Rights
From February to April, Eritrea built up its forces in the long-disputed Ras Doumeira area along the Eritrea/Djibouti border, with
Djibouti claiming that Eritrea had encroached on its territory. Small-scale armed conflict between the two countries erupted in June.
At least 35 soldiers were reported killed and 50 injured.
Eritrea hosted the Asmara wing of the Alliance for the Re-Liberation of Somalia (ARS), which split off from a Djibouti-based ARS
wing. Eritrea provided and served as a transit point for weapons and ammunition sold in weapons markets in Somalia.
After the replacement in late 2007 of Prime Minister Mohamed Gedi by Nur Hassan Hussein and the appointment of a new UN
Special Representative to the Secretary-General, Ahmedou Ould-Abdullah, hope for progress in ending the conflict and
consolidating governance emerged, despite ongoing armed conflict. In April the TFG and ARS-Djibouti began negotiations. They
signed a formal agreement in October, which included plans for a ceasefire, power-sharing and gradual Ethiopian troop withdrawal,
which began in November. At the October meeting in Djibouti, TFG and ARS representatives also jointly called for a Commission
of Inquiry into human rights abuses in Somalia.
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| ILLICIT DRUGS |
None reported.