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Warning of Ivory Coast humanitarian crisis
While all eyes are focused on events in north Africa, a major crisis is unfolding in the west of the continent, virtually unnoticed by the rest of the world. It is feared the political crisis in Ivory Coast after disputed elections in November could be turning into a humanitarian catastrophe. Tens of thousands have been forced to flee violent clashes between the military, which remains loyal to incumbent Laurent Gbagbo, and the forces of Alassane Ouattara, recognised by the world as the country’s new leader. With the violence unfolding mainly in the west of the country, most are fleeing to neighbouring Liberia. An estimated 40,000 refugees have already crossed the border and, according to humanitarian groups, this figure could rise to 100,000 by April. With the rainy season on its way, there will be an urgent need for medicine, water, food and shelter. Ivorians are no strangers to violence and unrest. It had been hoped November’s presidential election would finally reunite the country, already split by civil war eight years ago. Back then, hundreds were killed and tens of thousands of people were displaced in the violence that shook the country. It is feared the ongoing unrest could have dire consequences on the economy in the world’s top cocoa exporter. Prices have sky-rocketed amid concerns about future supplies from the region; they are now at a 32-year peak. The industry’s activity has become increasingly limited following an export ban imposed by Ouattara and EU sanctions against Gbagbo. As efforts by both the African Union and the UN to solve the crisis continue in vain, fears are growing that Ivory Coast could be heading for civil war once again, while the world looks the other way.

People power keeps pressure on Egypt’s military
Millions of Egyptians turned out on Friday for a ‘Victory March’ to mark the revolt that swept Hosni Mubarak from power. Across the country, hundreds of thousands joined rallies to commemorate the 365 people who died in the uprising. In the capital Cairo, Tahrir Square was once again the focal point for the gathering. An emotional celebration made memorable by the return from exile of an influential cleric. Sheikh Yousef al-Qaradawi told worshippers to be patient with the army but he also stressed the need to speed up reforms and free political prisoners. While soldiers handed out national flags, a military band repeatedly played the national anthem as a wave of patriotism swept through the jubilant crowd. With celebrations set to continue the world is eagerly watching to see whether the military can keep their promise of a swift transition to civilian rule.

Tech industry upbeat at CeBIT trade show
Geeks gathered in Germany this week, along with the top names in electronics and technology for CeBIT, Europe’s leading high-tech trade fair. As well as the fun and wacky stuff – like robots that spout Shakespeare or play table tennis – the likes of Google, IBM, SAP, Microsoft, HP and Dell are on hand with their latest offerings and anticipating an upturn. Frank P?�rschmann, who is in charge of CeBIT, said: “We see a recovery in the global economy and the information and communication technology industry. We see a clear interest in moving this business forward. That’s what CeBIT stands for: encouraging global business deals and being a positive dynamics for the industry.” BITKOM, the trade body for the industry in Germany, is predicting that the sector will grow worldwide, by 4.4 percent this year with major expansion in China, Russia, India and Brazil. There are more than 4,200 technology firms from 70 countries at the event in Hanover, in northern Germany. Over five days it is expected to attract more than a third of a million people.

UN facing calls for action over Libya
The focus of attention is also on the UN in New York where anti-Gaddafi protesters have already been making their feelings known outside the building. The Security Council is to meet in closed session amid calls for international action to protect Libyan citizens from the wrath of their rulers. Libyan diplomats who have broken away from the regime have been explaining their decision. “We have never been with Gaddafi, we are with the people,” said Ibrahim Dabbashi, deputy ambassador to the UN. “We just made a statement to ask the international community to intervene to do something to help the Libyan people who are facing genocide in Tripoli. Also (they are) facing crimes against humanity in all the eastern cities of Libya.” The UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said he spoke to Gaddafi yesterday and urged him to stop the violence. “I have seen very disturbing and shocking scenes where Libyan authorities have been firing at demonstrators from warplanes and helicopters,” he said. “This is unacceptable. This must stop immediately. This is a serious violation of international humanitarian law.” The Arab League is also holding an emergency meeting in Cairo today. The international community is voicing concern but it is facing calls for immediate measures, such as a no-fly zone above Libya to stop mercenaries from coming in. If you are in Libya, contact us and tell us what you see and witness. witness@euronews.net, twitter@euronews or facebook

Mumford and Sons surprise Brits’ winner
Grown up boy band Take That took the gong for Best British Group at this year’s Brit Awards. Still huge more than 20 years after their first hit, the group welcomed back Robbie Williams last year after he left in the mid 1990s. Folk-pop group Mumford & Sons got the Best British Album award for Sigh No More at the UK’s answer to the Grammys.