Bern, Press releases, 30.09.2009

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) is deeply concerned about the situation in Guinea. In addition to its lack of progress in restoring democratic rule in Guinea, the government is increasingly resorting to the use of force in order to crush protest actions initiated by the opposition.

On Monday 28 September, a peaceful demonstration by opposition groups was broken up by government security forces who opened fire on the crowds of protesters, killing more than a hundred people. The FDFA offers its condolences to the families of the victims. 

The FDFA condemns this excessive use of force, recalling to mind the obligation on the part of states to protect fundamental human rights, and in particular the right to life. It is appealing to the government of Guinea to restore rule of law and democracy, and to protect the right to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. The FDFA is also calling on the government of Guinea to release detained demonstrators and launch an immediate inquiry into the recent violence. 

The Swiss embassy in Abidjan and honorary consulate in Conakry are closely monitoring the situation in Guinea. To date, neither the 84 Swiss nationals living in Guinea, nor Swiss interests there, have been affected by the atrocities that have been committed during the past few days.


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Last update 19.07.2023

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