HRC59: Unfinished Business - Human Rights concerns in Burundi
The 59th Session of the Human Rights Council
16 June - 09 July 2025
Item 4: Interactive Dialogue on the oral update of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi
26 June 2025
By Teboho Mosebo/ GICJ
Executive Summary
The 59th Session of the Human Rights Council's Interactive Dialogue on Burundi witnessed a multifaceted discussion on the country's human rights situation. The Special Rapporteur on Burundi, Fortune Gaetan Zongo, provided an oral update, highlighting concerns regarding the independence and impartiality of the judicial system, abusive land practices targeting vulnerable populations, and restrictions on civic space. The update underscored the need for meaningful reforms to address these challenges.
The interactive dialogue revealed divergent perspectives among states. Some states commended Burundi's efforts to improve its human rights situation, emphasising the importance of respecting national sovereignty and countering misinformation. These States highlighted Burundi's progress in promoting human rights and encouraged continued international cooperation to support the country's endeavours. In contrast, other States expressed deep concern about the situation in Burundi, criticising the judicial system, electoral processes, and civic space. While some delegates raised concern over Burundi's human rights record, others states defended Burundi's sovereignty and acknowledged efforts by the government to address human rights challenges.
The dialogue also featured varied perspectives from Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs). Some NGOs supported Burundi's progress, acknowledging the country's efforts to promote human rights. Others echoed the concerns raised by Mr. Zongo, emphasising the need for meaningful reforms and international support to address the human rights challenges in Burundi.
Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) notes the complexity of the discussion, underscoring the need for continued international cooperation and support to address human rights challenges in Burundi. GICJ emphasises the importance of promoting human rights, dignity, and justice for all Burundians, and reiterates its commitment to supporting efforts to advance human rights and justice in Burundi and beyond.
Background
Since 2015, Burundi has experienced significant human rights challenges, marked by arbitrary killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and severe restrictions on freedoms of expression and assembly. The conflict, which has persisted for more than two decades, escalated further after the election of the late President Pierre Nkurunzinza for a third term in office. The government's efforts to hold accountable those responsible for these abuses have been lacking, particularly among members of the ruling party and its youth wing, the Imbonerakure.
The situation has been further complicated by high internal tensions, resulting in a narrowing of civic space and repression of political opponents, media professionals, and human rights defenders. The widespread impunity enjoyed by perpetrators of human rights violations remains a concern. The deteriorating security situation, especially since the resumption of attacks by the rebel group Résistance pour un État de droit au Burundi (RED Tabara), and the increase in cases of enforced disappearance and arbitrary arrest are also issues of concern.
The legislative elections held in June 2025 were marred by voter intimidation, irregularities, and exclusion of opposition parties. The ruling National Council for the Defense of Democracy-Forces for the Defense of Democracy (CNDD-FDD) party dominated the polls, while opposition parties, including the National Congress for Liberty (CNL), faced significant challenges and allegations of electoral manipulation.
Human rights violations persist in Burundi, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and cruel treatment, as well as arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition party members and human rights defenders. Enforced disappearances have also been documented, with 34 cases reported between January and June, primarily targeting opposition party members. Furthermore, violence against women remains a significant issue, with women and girls being subjected to sexual violence, including gang rape, often used as a tool to intimidate or punish perceived political opponents or their families.
The human rights situation in Burundi remains a concern, with the government facing criticism for its treatment of opposition members, civil society, and the media. The ruling CNDD-FDD party has consolidated its control over institutions, weakening and quashing political opposition.
Key Human Rights Issues
Arbitrary Killings and Enforced Disappearances: Security forces and members of the ruling party's youth league, Imbonerakure, have been implicated in extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, often targeting perceived opponents.
Arbitrary Detention and Torture: Many opposition members and human rights defenders have been arbitrarily detained and tortured, with some cases documented by human rights organisations.
Restrictions on Freedom of Expression and Assembly: The government has restricted freedom of expression and assembly, with journalists and civil society members facing harassment and intimidation.
Refugee Rights: Over 250,000 Burundian refugees live in neighboring countries, with some facing coerced returns in violation of the principle of non-refoulement.
Girls' Rights: 19% of girls are married before age 18, highlighting concerns about child marriages.
Resolution 57/22
The UN Human Rights Council adopted Resolution 57/22 on October 10, 2024, expressing concern about ongoing human rights violations in Burundi. The resolution strongly condemned all human rights violations and abuses committed in Burundi. The UN urged the government to guarantee rights to freedom of opinion, expression, peaceful assembly, and association. It also called for the government to hold all perpetrators accountable for their actions and ensure victims can seek justice and legal redress.
Furthermore, the resolution called for the government to create conditions necessary for inclusive, transparent, and credible parliamentary elections in 2025. The government was also urged to guarantee the full independence of the judiciary and cooperate fully with the Special Rapporteur and UN human rights mechanisms.
Recommendations
The UN urged the government to implement the recommendations outlined in Resolution 57/22, hold all perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable, guarantee fundamental freedoms, and ensure inclusive, transparent, and credible parliamentary elections in 2025. The government of Burundi was encouraged to provide a safe and enabling environment for human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society members, and to cooperate fully with UN human rights mechanisms.
Interactive Dialogue
Opening Statement
The Special Rapporteur, Mr. Fortune Gaetan Zongo, opened his oral update by reflecting on the political crisis that occurred ten years ago, which triggered mass human rights violations. He noted that it was in response to this crisis that the Human Rights Council established a commission of inquiry, followed by the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Burundi.
He expressed deep concern over the country's fragile economy, marked by soaring inflation and chronic fuel shortages, and the recent June 2025 elections, which were peaceful but marked by tension, intimidation, and severe restrictions on civic space. The Special Rapporteur criticised the lack of genuine political competition and opposition, highlighting the ruling party's dominance.
He noted the plight of around a quarter million Burundians living outside the country, who lack adequate security and safety guarantees to return voluntarily and in dignity. He also highlighted abusive land dispossession practices, particularly affecting vulnerable populations, including women, widows, orphans, and other vulnerable families. The Special Rapporteur concluded by recommending inclusive elections, protection for human rights defenders and journalists, and an immediate end to land confiscation from vulnerable individuals.
Statement by the Concerned Country
The delegate of Burundi criticised the European Union and the Council, arguing that their concerns about the human rights situation in Burundi were unfounded. She countered that the world had witnessed peaceful elections with a strong turnout, questioning the relevance of the Human Rights Council's mandate. Moreover, she suggested that the mandate seemed to serve the interests of other countries, rather than genuinely preventing human rights violations.
The delegate called for a re-evaluation of the Council and its mechanisms, finding it nonsensical that Burundi remained on the agenda ten years later, despite significant progress. She accused the Council's mandate of being based on misinformation and deliberate manipulation of the truth, stating that the Special Rapporteur's report distorted Burundi's reality. Furthermore, she condemned the international community for stigmatising and dehumanising Burundians without considering their views.
The delegate emphasised Burundi's unity and determination to demonstrate political maturity, reiterating the country's commitment to working with human rights mechanisms to promote and protect human rights. She expressed frustration that, for a decade, Burundi had not been treated with dignity and respect, but reaffirmed the country's commitment to cooperation.
Statement by other Countries and Groups
The representative of the European Union expressed concern over allegations of irregularities in Burundi's June 2025 elections, citing limitations on media access and political observer participation, which compromised the credibility and competitiveness of the elections. The EU also voiced concerns about the lack of pluralism in the new National Assembly, underscoring the need for inclusive political participation.
The representative highlighted persistent and numerous violations of fundamental rights in Burundi, including arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, acts of torture, and restrictions on freedom of expression. He called on the authorities to end impunity and guarantee access to justice for victims of these violations. Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of the Burundi National Human Rights Commission exercising its mandate effectively and encouraged the authorities to support its work in promoting and protecting human rights in Burundi.
The Delegate of Denmark, speaking on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries thanked the Special Rapporteur for his oral update and expressed deep concern about the widespread and serious human rights violations in Burundi, which occur with impunity. He highlighted reports of torture, executions, inhumane and degrading acts, and sexual violence, condemning the continued punishment of human rights defenders, journalists, political opposition, and civil society for exercising their fundamental rights.
The delegate emphasised that the Government of Burundi is responsible for protecting the human rights of its citizens. He strongly urged the government to fulfill its responsibilities and fully collaborate with the Special Rapporteur and other human rights mechanisms to address these violations and ensure accountability.
The representative of Luxembourg, speaking on behalf of a group of countries, aligned itself with the European Union's statement. While appreciating the peaceful conduct of the elections in Burundi, the delegate expressed concern over allegations of irregularities in the electoral process and the lack of pluralism in the new National Assembly. Emphasising the importance of meaningful participation by all political parties in a democratic government, the delegate encouraged Burundi to uphold values of pluralism and freedom of expression.
The delegate also expressed deep concern over the continuing impunity and called on the authorities to take decisive action against acts of intimidation, violence, arbitrary arrests, and enforced disappearances, particularly targeting journalists and human rights defenders. Furthermore, the delegate urged the authorities to enhance efforts to protect civic space and ensure a safe environment for all.
The delegate of Ghana, speaking on behalf of the African Group, criticised the reports made against Burundi, strongly opposing the politicisation of human rights issues. She emphasised that the promotion and protection of human rights should be based on cooperation and genuine dialogue, advocating for equal evaluation of all countries regardless of their location or origin. The delegate highlighted the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) as a valuable mechanism for assessing human rights situations.
Welcoming Burundi's initiatives to consolidate human rights, including its constructive engagement with UPR mechanisms and treaty bodies, the delegate reiterated the need for an objective and non-selective approach in evaluating the country's human rights situation.
The delegate of Eritrea categorically rejected the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, deeming it unjust, intrusive, and politically motivated. The delegate argued that such mandates undermine a country's sovereignty and serve narrow political agendas rather than promoting human rights. Eritrea commended Burundi's progress in consolidating peace, reforming national institutions, and advancing human rights and dignity for its people. The delegate reiterated that the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) remains the most appropriate and credible framework for addressing human rights issues.
The representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea criticised the reports on Burundi, stating that some countries' reports appeared to be far from the reality on the ground and biased, ignoring Burundi's efforts to improve their human rights situation. He emphasised that such reports do not foster a conducive environment for cooperation. The delegate stressed that Burundi's efforts should be taken into account and further encouraged. In conclusion, he called for the international community, including human rights defenders, to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation when addressing Burundi's human rights, refraining from bias and politicisation.
The delegate of the Russian Federation noted the efforts of the Government of Burundi in promoting human rights, highlighting the country's leadership in stabilising domestic politics. He welcomed the authorities' work, particularly the establishment of a national human rights commission and initiatives aimed at truth and reconciliation. The delegate commended Burundi's active engagement in dialogue with human rights bodies, including the Office of the High Commissioner. Furthermore, he acknowledged Burundi's efforts to prevent discrimination against minorities and strengthen parliamentary and other institutional structures.
The delegate of China noted the Special Rapporteur's oral update and appreciated Burundi's efforts to promote truth and reconciliation, acknowledging the progress made in maintaining peace and stability, emphasising that these achievements are valuable. The delegate reiterated the importance of the international community respecting Burundi's sovereignty and independence, supporting its efforts to resolve domestic issues independently and playing a constructive role in helping the country achieve stability and sustainable development. China emphasised the need for constructive dialogue and cooperation to address human rights issues, cautioning that misinformation hinders Burundi's efforts to tackle these challenges, and the delegate urged the international community to refrain from interfering in Burundi's internal affairs.
Lastly, the representative of the United Kingdom welcomed the recent peaceful legislative elections in Burundi in June 2025, but expressed concern about serious allegations, including voter intimidation. She emphasised that opposition parties must be allowed to participate in elections and democratic processes. The UK called on the government of Burundi to address these issues transparently, enabling the people of Burundi to fully exercise their political and civil rights.
Statement by NGOs and civil society
NGOs presented diverse perspectives on Burundi's human rights situation. Some commended the country's progress in promoting peace and stability, highlighting efforts in rebuilding and national reconciliation. They stressed the importance of continued international support to consolidate these gains, emphasising that Burundi's progress is a testament to the country's resilience and determination. These NGOs encouraged the international community to maintain a collaborative approach, providing technical assistance and capacity-building support to further strengthen Burundi's human rights framework.
However, other NGOs expressed concerns about restrictions on civic space, land dispossession, and human rights violations. They called for accountability and reforms, emphasising the need for international cooperation to build a robust human rights framework. These NGOs highlighted specific issues, such as voter intimidation, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of expression, underscoring the complexity of Burundi's human rights situation and the need for nuanced engagement.
Closing Remarks
The Special Rapporteur expressed appreciation to the representatives of Burundi and other delegations for their active participation in the discussion, noting the complexity and importance of the human rights issues addressed. He acknowledged the progress made by Burundi in promoting peace, stability, and national reconciliation.
While emphasising the need for further efforts to address the serious allegations of human rights violations, including voter intimidation, and to ensure transparency and accountability in governance, the Special Rapporteur reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the dialogue with Burundi. This ongoing engagement aims to support the full realisation of human rights for its citizens.
Mr. Zongo encouraged all stakeholders to maintain an open and constructive engagement to achieve sustainable progress in the human rights situation in Burundi, ensuring their political and civil rights are protected and promoted in a manner consistent with international standards.
Position of the Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ)
Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) is deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Burundi, particularly the need for accountability and transparency in addressing allegations of voter intimidation and other human rights violations. We emphasise the importance of ensuring that the government of Burundi upholds its international obligations to protect and promote human rights, including the rights to free and fair participation in electoral processes.
We welcome the recent legislative elections in Burundi, but note that the process was marred by irregularities and restrictions on opposition parties. We call on the Burundian authorities to investigate these allegations thoroughly and to take concrete steps to prevent future occurrences, ensuring that all citizens can exercise their political and civil rights without fear of reprisal.
Furthermore, we stress the need for international cooperation and support to help Burundi build a robust human rights framework that aligns with international standards. This includes technical assistance, capacity-building, and ongoing dialogue with human rights mechanisms. We reiterate our commitment to monitoring the human rights situation in Burundi closely and to advocating for the protection and promotion of human rights for all Burundian citizens.
