The European Union (EU) takes note of the announcement of the provisional results announced by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). The lack of consensus on the electoral framework has divided the country. Many Ivorians voted, but many others did not, either by choice or because they were prevented from doing so by violence and blockades.

The EU points out the marked disparities between the turnout rates in the different regions of the country, as highlighted by several election observation missions on the spot.

The EU expresses grave concern over the tensions, provocations and incitement to hatred that have prevailed and still prevail in the country around this election. The violence that has caused the deaths of several people and injured many others must be subjected to independent investigations so that justice can be done as soon as possible.

The EU expects all stakeholders to take the lead in calming the situation and resuming dialogue, involving the younger generations and promoting reconciliation through very concrete steps in order to put this violence and division behind them. It will support any such efforts by national and international actors.