World Report 2025: Rights Trends in Burundi

The World Report 2025 on Burundi reveals ongoing repression of civil rights by the government, economic crisis conditions, violence against women and children, strained regional relations, and inadequate human rights oversight mechanisms. The report underscores the persistent challenges faced by civil society, independent media, and political opposition, indicating a critical need for international intervention and accountability.

The World Report 2025 on Burundi outlines severe violations of civil rights amid the government’s tightening grip on civil society, independent media, and political dissent. Notably, ongoing impunity for past human rights violations is prevalent, particularly regarding abuses stemming from the 2015 crisis. Additional concerns arise with enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests as the 2025 legislative and municipal elections approach.

Burundi is grappling with a significant economic crisis, registering a staggering inflation rate of 26 percent. Over half the population lives in poverty, as reported by the United Nations. Essential public services such as health care and education are severely impacted due to shortages of fuel, water, and electricity outages.

The ruling party, the National Council for the Defense of Democracy-Forces for the Defense of Democracy (CNDD-FDD), maintains stringent control over national institutions and utilizes the National Intelligence Service (SNR) and the Imbonerakure youth league to manage internal dissent. This paramilitary group continues to engage in violent actions against perceived political opponents, along with contributing to military operations abroad.

A recent electoral code revision raised the cost for candidates to register for elections significantly, which poses barriers to electoral participation. Additionally, new restrictions mandate that former party members wait two years to run as independents, stifling the candidacy of Agathon Rwasa, the remaining opposition leader.

The atmosphere for media and press freedom remains fraught with threats and repression. Despite a presidential pardon for one journalist, others remain incarcerated or face police assault. The independent media outlet Iwacu has faced significant pressure, including threats and regulatory aggression from authorities, limiting its operations.

The government has failed to address gender-based violence, with alarmingly high rates of child marriages noted. Recent actions by law enforcement included harassment and eviction of cohabiting couples, undermining family integrity under the guise of enforcing moral standards.

Security concerns are mounting as armed groups operate with impunity, causing violence around border regions. Tensions escalate with neighboring Rwanda, particularly following violent incidents attributed to the RED-Tabara armed group, highlighting regional insecurity issues and diplomatic strains.

Burundi’s domestic human rights oversight mechanisms are inadequate. The UN Human Rights Council extends its support for monitoring the situation, but the country’s authorities have shown a consistent disregard for international obligations. A lack of independent national institutions impedes accountability for human rights violations during politically sensitive events.

Criminalization of same-sex relations persists, with recent statements from government officials inciting violence against the LGBTQ+ community, reflecting continued discrimination against sexual minorities in Burundi.

In conclusion, the World Report 2025 highlights critical human rights concerns in Burundi, including government repression of civil society, media, and political opponents. Economic strife exacerbates the situation, impacting basic services. Ineffective oversight and a hostile environment for gender and sexual minorities further portray a dire human rights landscape. The ongoing situation demands sustained international attention to promote accountability and protect the rights of all Burundians.

Original Source: www.hrw.org