Overview:

• The rule of mandatory registration violates the Bielefeldt provision which automatically classifies Côte d’Ivoire as restrictive; there are no prescribed retributions for unregistration.

• A differentiation is made between local and foreign groups; administratively, this is acceptable as long as groups are not discriminated against due to their origins, whether foreign or local.

Positive elements:

• A number of useful benefits are extended to registered groups.

• Horizontal recognition is in effect.

• The stated responsibilities of the DGC are dynamic in characteristic, particularly its facilitation of interfaith dialogue and its provision of support for religious groups attempt to establish themselves in the country.

Recommendations:

• Revoke the laws surrounding mandatory registration, even if they are dormant.

• Upon the revocation of such laws, Côte d’Ivoire should be able to move to receptivity.

• To move to dynamism, there would need to be an independent recognition agency established.

• Also, greater differentiation would need to be made between existential recognition and legal registration with relevant and suitable provisions granted to facilitate recognition at different levels simultaneously.