The resolution condemned violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in the country since 19 September 2002 when the Patriotic Movement of Côte d'Ivoire took control of the second largest town, and welcomed the deployment of ECOWAS and French peacekeeping forces.[3] The forces were authorised, under Chapter VII and Chapter VIII of the United Nations Charter, to use all necessary measures to guarantee their freedom of movement and protect civilians for six months.[2][4] They were also required to report periodically on the implementation of their mandates.