Ahead of the 51^st session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC51, 12 September-7 October 2022), 54 NGOs are joining DefendDefenders in calling for the renewal of the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on Burundi. 

“We believe that all components of the Special Rapporteur’s mandate can contribute to im­proving Burundi’s human rights situation,” the signatories write while stressing that the Special Rapporteur needs more time to fulfil his mandate. 

The Special Rapporteur succeeded the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) on Burundi, which investigated grave violations and abuses committed in the country since 2015. Some of these violations may amount to crimes under international law. 

The signatories conclude: “In the absence of structural improvements and as grave human rights violations and abuses continue to be committed with impunity, the Council should adopt a resolution that reflects realities on the ground and ensures continued monitoring, reporting, and public debates on Burundi’s human rights situation.” 

Read the full letter in English. 
Disponible également : version française.