HRC57 - NB8 statement - Burundi

Human Rights Council ‒ 57th session
Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi
Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states
23 September 2024

Mr. President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic Baltic states.

We thank the Special Rapporteur for his comprehensive report.

We remain deeply alarmed by serious human rights violations and abuses in Burundi that continue to take place in the context of widespread impunity for past atrocities and ongoing violations and abuses.

These human rights violations include extrajudicial executions, acts of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, sexual and gender-based violence, and undue restrictions on freedoms of opinion, expression, peaceful assembly and association.

As Burundi approaches its 2025 legislative elections, shrinking civic space combined with violence and intimidation, pose a significant threat to free political participation and further highlight the need for concrete and immediate action to protect human rights and ensure accountability.

At this critical juncture, we urge the Government of Burundi to collaborate effectively with the United Nations mechanisms, including the Special Rapporteur.

In doing so, Burundi can take concrete steps towards ending impunity, addressing human rights violations and abuses, and embark on a crucial shift towards a future guided by respect for human rights.

Mr. Special Rapporteur,

How can the international community support Burundi in ensuring fair and inclusive elections?

I thank you.