EU Statement – UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi, Mr Fortuné Gaetan ZONGO

Chair,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the EU and its Member States.

The EU thanks the Special Rapporteur for his work and reiterates its support for his mandate, which was recently renewed by the Human Rights Council, and which is being carried out under difficult conditions. The EU takes good note of the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations in support of human rights for all in Burundi.

The EU encourages Burundi to provide full and unhindered access to the Special Rapporteur, to fully cooperate with OHCHR on reopening of a country office, and to effectively implement the recommendations of the former Commission of Inquiry and independence of the National Human Rights Commission.

The Special Rapporteur’s report documents a persistent pattern of serious human rights violations and abuses. Despite some positive developments in recent years, the political and civic space continues to shrink.

Ahead of the 2027 Presidential election, we are particularly concerned about growing restrictions targeting opposition parties, the media, human rights defenders, and civil society. An open and pluralistic political environment, and the full enjoyment of rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, are essential to free, inclusive and credible elections.

The European Union remains deeply committed to the promotion and protection of human rights in Burundi. We call on the authorities to ensure independent, impartial, and effective investigations into all allegations of human rights violations and to combat impunity. We look to Burundi to ensure, conditions necessary for an electoral process respectful of human rights. We reaffirm our firm support for the people of Burundi.

Special Rapporteur,

the EU echoes your concerns regarding the 2027 elections. How can the international community work with the Government of Burundi to ensure the full implementation of your recommendations as a preventive measure against human rights violations?

Thank you.