As serious human rights violations continue to be committed in Burundi in a context of widespread impunity, and as the country prepares for elections in a tense national and regional environment, dozens of NGOs call on the UN Human Rights Council to maintain its scrutiny by extending the mandate of the Special Rapporteur.
In a letter released today, they call on all states to support a resolution addressing the human rights situation in Burundi at the Council’s 57th session (9 September-11 October 2024).
The signatories highlight ongoing violations and abuses committed by state and para-state actors, as well as risk factors of further violations, especially in relation to upcoming legislative (May 2025) and presidential elections (May 2027) and as authorities have increased their pressure over civic space.
They also highlight that Burundi’s economic situation has worsened and that grave violations of economic, social and cultural rights are increasingly at the forefront of the country’s human rights crisis.
The Burundian government continues to disregard or minimise the severity of human rights challenges, and refuses to grant access to and meaningfully cooperate with independent human rights bodies. As Burundi became a member of the Human Rights Council for the 2024-2026 period, the Council should pursue its action and make clear that membership comes with an enhanced responsibility to accept scrutiny.
“In the absence of progress, there is no basis to depart from the Council’s current approach,” the signatories add. “The Special Rapporteur remains indispensable.”
Read the full letter in English.
Également disponible : version française.