The Security Council welcomed progress in the Sierra Leonean peace process, including the lifting of a state of emergency. Meanwhile, the situation in the Mano River region remained fragile and there was a significant increase in the number of refugees. It emphasised the importance of free and fair elections, the extension of state authority throughout the country, reintegration of ex-combatants, respect for human rights, the unhindered return of refugees and internally displaced persons and taking action to end impunity.