Statement by the Spokesperson on the banning of Ligue Iteka in Burundi

The Burundian authorities' decision to ban Ligue Iteka does nothing to advance the cause of peace and the pursuit of an inclusive solution to the crisis affecting Burundi.

More than ever, Burundi needs organisations that can play a role in establishing the truth and fighting impunity. Since it was set up in 1991, Ligue Iteka has done outstanding, and highly regarded work on combating violations of human rights in Burundi, especially in the context of the various tragic events that have since taken place in the country.

The European Union urges the Burundian authorities to reconsider this decision and ensure that civil society players and human rights activists are able to operate freely and safely.