Issue and Opponent: Incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo had refused to step down since losing November’s presidential election to Alassane Ouattara.
Dilemma Action: Fifteen thousand women gathered peacefully in the city of Abidjan, in Ivory Coast, to march against Gbagbo. Some of the women were wearing all black or nothing at all, both of which are cultural taboos. It was seen as an act of ‘”cursing the rule of Gbagbo”. Other women were dressed in traditional dress and t-shirts with Ouattara’s face printed on it. Many of the women were holding leaves, symbols of peace, and were chanting against the illegitimate rule and calling for Gbagbo to step down.
Outcome: Security forces attacked the women, killing seven. Tensions resulted in a civil war in the country between Gbagbo supporters (military forces) and Ouattara (who was the internationally recognized president) supporters. French forces eventually arrested Gbagbo on April 11, 2011. Ouattara has served as president since.