Human Rights Burundi – Devastating Coups and the Root Causes

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Political instability, coups, and conflict due to ethnic divisions between the Hutu and Tutsi populations are the root causes of Burundi human rights problems. Burundi, a small country in East Africa, has long faced big challenges to its approach to human rights.

Burundi is committed to international human rights instruments, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (ACHPR). Despite the commitment it has abused human rights in numerous instances.

• Unlawful killings.
• Effecting the disappearance of citizens.
• Torture.
• Ill-treatment of citizens, and
• Arbitrary arrests

International and Burundian rights groups have documented these examples. Making Burundi one of the worst human rights countries.

The Burundi government, political opposition, and rebel groups have all been implicated in human rights abuses. Power struggles and complex political dynamics have fueled violence and unrest, further exacerbating the problems. The global community has scrutinised the role of its authorities and the state of human rights defenders in Burundi.

Historical Overview of Human Rights in Burundi

A small landlocked country in East Africa’s Great Rift Valley, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda all border Burundi. It has a population of approximately 13 million, and the president is head of state and government.

Burundi, one of the world’s poorest nations, is struggling to emerge from a 12-year, ethnic-based civil war.

BBC News

Recurrent violence and political tension in Burundi is rooted in ethnic divisions between the Hutu and Tutsi populations. Since gaining independence from Belgium in 1962, Burundi has struggled with political instability, coups, and conflicts. This unstable situation has led to significant human rights concerns.

The Nkurunziza Presidency

In 2005, Pierre Nkurunziza became the elected president. He became the country’s first democratically elected Hutu president. During his tenure Burundi experienced numerous human rights violations. They included:

• crackdowns on dissent,
• extrajudicial killings, and
• imprisonment of opposition figures.

The tense situation escalated in 2015 when Nkurunziza announced his candidacy for a controversial third term, sparking mass protests, violence, and a failed coup attempt.

Despite domestic and international pressure, Nkurunziza won the disputed presidential elections in 2015. After the victory, the already bad human rights situation became dire. The regime continued its crackdown on the opposition and enacted a wave of repression, often with ethnic overtones. Many feared the violence would escalate into a full-scale ethnic conflict, like the country’s civil war in the 1990s.

The Ndayishimiye Presidency

In June 2020, Évariste Ndayishimiye took over as president following Nkurunziza’s unexpected death. Ndayishimiye, from the ruling CNDD-FDD party, had won the presidential election earlier in May. Upon taking office, he committed to addressing some of the pressing human rights issues and improving relations with regional and international partners.

Under Ndayishimiye’s leadership improved things somewhat. Among them was the release of political prisoners and efforts to investigate human rights violations. However, significant concerns remained, including restrictions on freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. Amnesty International’s 2022 report on Burundi documented this.

Takeaway

Throughout Burundi’s history, human rights have been a central challenge for successive governments. The country’s socio-political landscape, characterised by ethnic divisions and deep-rooted grievances, continued to act as a barrier to meaningful progress. Addressing these entrenched issues required sustained cooperation between all actors, within and beyond Burundi’s borders.

Human Rights Burundi  – since 2020

Burundi has evolved in a complex human rights landscape. Since President Évariste Ndayishimiye took office in June 2020, there have been improvements in Burundi’s human rights situation. The administration released four jailed journalists and two human rights defenders held on baseless charges. Although limited, this demonstrated progress in addressing the plight of journalists and human rights activists.

However, there were still significant concerns. Arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and harassment of opposition by security forces and the ruling party’s youth wing (Imbonerakure) continued. Despite the authorities promising to curb these acts, abuses by security forces and Imbonerakure persisted.

The role of media and civil society in Burundi has been a focal point of the human rights situation. While the authorities lifted some restrictions on media outlets and civil society organisations, challenges remained. The independence of the media and its ability to operate without fear of retribution are essential for the overall advancement of human rights.

Takeaway

Although there have been some positive developments in Burundi’s human rights sphere since President Ndayishimiye’s election, significant and persistent challenges remained. Government must take responsibility for addressing arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, harassment, and media freedom to uphold human rights .

Role of Authorities

The authorities in Burundi have played a significant role in maintaining order and addressing human rights issues.

Ministry of Public Security and Ministry of Defense

The National Police of Burundi operates under the authority of the Ministry of Public Security and is responsible for law enforcement and maintaining order. In addition to the police force, the armed forces have also contributed to ensuring security within the country. They operate under the Ministry of Defense and handle external security threats and they have some domestic security responsibilities.

National Intelligence Service

The National Intelligence Service is another key entity in Burundi responsible for safeguarding national security. Human Rights Watch report shows there have been instances where the police or national intelligence have executed men suspected of belonging to or assisting armed groups.

National Assembly

Local authorities play a crucial part in the governance structure of Burundi, especially in Gitega, the political capital of the country. These authorities are involved in overseeing the well-being of residents, ensuring safety, and implementing policies as determined by the National Assembly.

The National Assembly is responsible for the legislative duties in the country and plays a pivotal role in shaping human rights policies and practices. As lawmakers, they have the power to improve the human rights situation in the country by enacting legislation that promotes the protection of citizens’ rights.

Other Authorities

Other important entities in Burundi’s political landscape are:

• Imbonerakure, the youth wing of the ruling party,
• National Council for the Defense of Democracy (CNDD)
• Forces for the Defense of Democracy (FDD). (FDD carries out political activities associated with human rights violations.)

The authorities play a crucial role in fostering a more respectful and just society. They do so by strengthening the rule of law, promoting transparency, and addressing human rights abuses apprpriately.

State of Human Rights Defenders

The situation for human rights defenders in Burundi has been precarious for years. On Valentine’s Day, 2023, Burundian authorities arbitrarily arrested five human rights defenders on baseless charges. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch urged the Burundi government to release these individuals and drop the charges against them.

The Imbonerakure has been involved in human rights abuses, often targeting human rights defenders. The Imbonerakure’s actions have contributed significantly to the hostile environment for human rights defenders.

The UN Human Rights Council has expressed concerns about the situation in Burundi. However, the Burundi government has not been cooperative with the council and its resolutions. This has made it difficult for international bodies to improve human rights conditions in the country.

The Burundi Supreme Court has played a role in the human rights crisis. The court has been accused of not providing fair trials for human rights defenders and of acting on political motivations. This has hampered the ability of human rights organisations to help those in danger.

Takeaway

The state of human rights defenders in Burundi has been fraught with difficulties. International organisations Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the UN Human Rights Council have tried to address the challenges. But the lack of cooperation from Burundi’s government, combined with the actions of groups like the Imbonerakure and the Supreme Court, has made it difficult for human rights defenders to carry out crucial work safely and effectively.

Impact on Civil Society

Burundi civil society has faced significant challenges, including entrenched repression of their activities and limitations on media freedom. These factors have led to a climate where human rights abuses are more likely to occur and remain unchecked.

Unlawful killings, the disappearances of civilians and the torture of perceived offenders have been prevalent in Burundi. International and local human rights groups have all documented known incidents. The abuse of power by security forces and the Imbonerakure, has led to a decline in the ability of civil society organisations to operate freely and protect the rights of citizens.

The suppression of media outlets and journalists has contributed to a lack of transparency and accountability. In addition, arbitrary arrests and detention are common in Burundi, further hindering the work of civil society. Fearing for their safety and the safety of their families, many human rights defenders and activists have fled the country or operated under the radar,

The Burundian government has been sanctioned due to human rights violations. This has impacted the country’s ability to address social, economic, and political issues. Despite some progress in lifting media restrictions, the overall humanitarian situation has been dire.

Takeaway

Burundi Civil society has been severely impacted by numerous human rights abuses, repression, and restrictions on media and communication. The consequences have been felt throughout the country, as access to justice and human rights protections became increasingly difficult to attain.

Impact on Refugees and Exiles

Burundi human rights ignorance has negatively impacted refugees and exiles, particularly Burundian refugees and exiled journalists. The fear of violence, arbitrary arrest, and deportation has forced many individuals to flee the country in search of safety. The United Nations has reported cases of serious human rights violations continuing in a general climate of impunity. Thus, exacerbating the dire situation faced by refugees.

Burundian refugees In Tanzania and asylum seekers faced pressure to return home, despite safety concerns. Experts deplored Burundi human rights and called on Tanzania and Burundi governments to respect people’s rights.

Exiled journalists who have tried to report Burundi’s true situation have been targeted by the authorities. Physical attacks, surveillance, and threats from state actors, has inhibited their freedom to report accurately.

The appointment of President Evariste Ndayishimiye in 2021 marked a potential shift in the country’s response to human rights concerns. According to Human Rights Watch, serious human rights violations persist under the new administration. The government’s commitment to addressing the plight of refugees and exiles remains a concern for international human rights organisations and advocacy groups.

Implications for Justice and Rule of Law

Burundi’s implementation of Justice and the rule of law, particularly concerning impunity, human rights violations, and the lack of an accountable judiciary system is flawed. Because of this, victims and perpetrators do not have access to fair and impartial justice.

Impunity is of great concern, where violations and abuses committed since 2015 have had lasting consequences for Burundi society. Despite the government’s production of a roadmap to address human rights and other reforms, the document remains vague and noncommittal. The lack of accountability for past crimes is a major obstacle to the establishment of the rule of law and the protection of human rights.

The judiciary system in Burundi has been widely criticised for its inability to curb or remedy human rights violations. The independence of the judiciary is critical to safeguard the rule of law and ensure proper accountability for misconduct. However, the judicial system seems ill-equipped to address the issues effectively, further exacerbating the problem of impunity.

Burundi human rights violations, including torture and killings, are pervasive. While the nation has undergone a transition, there is still a long way to go in addressing this issue. A key aspect of the solution would be to reform the judiciary system and ensure its independence and freedom from political pressure or interference.

Takeaway

The issues related to impunity, justice, the judiciary, human rights violations, and the rule of law are intertwined in the Burundian context. For the country to make meaningful progress in these areas, it is essential that the government takes appropriate measures to strengthen its judicial system and promote transparency and accountability for all actors involved. Burundi must move towards democratic rule.

Political Opposition and Rebel Groups

Protecting the rights of political opposition members and dealing with rebel groups has been problematic for Burundi. The Security Forces have been known to target and commit unlawful or arbitrary killings of those believed to oppose the ruling party. Many of the targeted individuals belonged to opposition parties, particularly the National Congress for Freedom (CNL).

Armed Groups and Rebels

Armed groups and rebels have been subjected to human rights violations by the authorities. Security forces have conducted searches with the intent of finding individuals allegedly involved in armed attacks. These actions have led to torture, murder, and lawlessness, thereby weakening the mechanism for protecting human rights.

In northwestern Cibitoke Province, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a vicious crackdown was implemented against those suspected of opposing the government or affiliating with rebel groups. This illustrated the precarious situation for political dissidents and armed rebels in Burundi.

Prisons

Prisons in Burundi are harsh and often life-threatening. Particularly for those opposing the government and those affiliated with rebel groups. In many cases, prisoners have been subjected to torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Maltreatment of prisoners is of great concern for the international community when addressing human rights in Burundi.

Human Rights Council – Role

The Human Rights Council urged Burundi to cooperate with international mechanisms. And it emphasised changes in the approach toward the country would only occur if Burundi adhered to its commitments. The UN Commission of Inquiry examined the situation in Burundi by looking into its human rights violations.

In response to international pressure, some positive developments have occurred. For example, the 32-year sentence of Germain Rukuki, a human rights activist and member of Action by Christians for the Abolition of Torture, was overturned. However, there were still many issues to be addressed.

Takeaway

Despite the international community’s work to make Burundi accountable for human rights abuses there are still challenges. The country must be willing to cooperate with international mechanisms and take concrete action. While progress has been made, sustained and collaborative efforts from the parties is crucial to ensure justice and accountability in Burundi.

Effect on Population

Human rights in Burundi has had a significant impact on the population, particularly in rural areas. Reports indicate that widespread abuse has led to residents’ fear and instability. Moreover, the actions of the Burundian government and its security forces, including the police and the national intelligence, have exacerbated the problem.

Human Rights Abuse Responsible

The human rights crisis in the country affected the people in many ways. Food insecurity being major concern, as the population struggled to access sufficient food. The crisis also led to an increase in sexual and gender-based violence, which disproportionately affects women and girls. This type of violence has severe long-term consequences for the victims, their families, and the wider community.

Imbonerakure

The youth league, Imbonerakure, has played a significant role in Burundi. The government-aligned group has been accused of being involved in numerous rights violations, including acts of violence against civilians and intimidation tactics. The activities of this group have heightened the sense of insecurity among the population, particularly in rural areas where their presence is predominant.

Takeaway

Abuse of human rights in Burundi has had severe consequences on the population, affecting their:

• access to food and basic needs,
• resilience to violence, and
• overall safety.

The government’s actions, along with the involvement of armed groups such as Imbonerakure, have compounded the challenges faced by the residents, particularly those in rural areas. They must address these issues to improve the stability and security of the country.

Media Impact and the Role of Fake News

The impact of media on Burundi society and the political landscape is significant. However, the prevalence of fake news and government control over the media led to a climate of misinformation and fear. Alleged irregularities in the electoral process, crimes against humanity, and the containment of the COVID-19 pandemic are examples. In this context, the role of independent and local media in providing accurate and unbiased information is crucial.

The independent media landscape has been under constant threat as the Burundi government tightened its grip on the flow of information. To control the narrative, the government suspended Voice of America (VOA) and withdrawn the (BBC’s) license. The result – limited access to unbiased news, especially on sensitive political and human rights issues.

Fake news has proliferated with the decline of independent media, as misinformation and sensationalism fill the void left by the absence of unbiased reporting. The spread of fake news through social media platforms and unregulated online sources has hindered the Burundian people’s ability to access accurate information on pertinent issues, such as crimes against humanity, human rights abuses, and irregularities in the political landscape.

Takeaway

The significance of independent and local media in Burundi cannot be overstated, as it helps maintain a transparent, accountable, and democratic society. However, government control and the proliferation of fake news in the country have had a detrimental impact on citizens, who rely on accurate and unbiased information to make informed decisions about their lives and community.

Response of Political Parties and Civil Society Organisations

The CNL (National Freedom Council), a major opposition party in Burundi, has raised concerns regarding Burundi human rights abuse. They pointed to instances of arbitrary deprivation of life and other unlawful or politically motivated killings. This alarmed civil society organisations and international observers alike. These incidents, combined with allegations of fraud during the recent elections, fueled calls for reforms to strengthen the rule of law.

Despite facing entrenched repression, civil society organisations in Burundi have been at the forefront of monitoring and reporting human rights violations. They documented mistreatment and abuse inflicted upon citizens by the authorities. This ranged from torture and cruel treatment to forced disappearances and denial of basic freedoms. These findings drew attention to the need for urgent reforms, not just within law enforcement agencies but across the entire governance system.

In response to the human rights concerns, civil society organisations have called on the international community. They asked for support initiatives aimed at promoting human rights, strengthening the rule of law, and improving the welfare of Burundians. They also urged the national government to adopt concrete measures that would address impunity and establish a genuinely transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance framework.

Takeaway

The active engagement of political parties like CNL, as well as domestic and international civil society organisations, reflects their commitment to the improvement of human rights in Burundi. Their work is crucial in shedding light on the challenges, raising awareness, and promoting necessary changes that could pave the way for a more equitable and just society.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major human rights violations in Burundi?

There are several types of human rights violations in Burundi. The most severe being arbitrary deprivation of life, unlawful or politically motivated killings, the disappearance of civilians, and torture. In addition, inhumane treatment or punishment, as well as harsh prison and detention centre conditions, have been documented.

How does political conflict in Burundi affect its citizens?

Political conflict in Burundi, particularly after President Pierre Nkurunziza announced his bid for a third term in 2015, sparked a major crisis in the country. This led to increased violence, with civilians often bearing the brunt of political infighting and repression. Repressive measures include arbitrary arrests, torture, and violence against opposition members or perceived critics.

How has the poverty rate in Burundi impacted human rights?

Poverty means many people have faced food insecurity, vulnerability to human rights abuse. Limited access to resources and opportunities exacerbate inequality, discrimination, and desperation, which ultimately leads to an increase in crime and violence. Furthermore, poverty and lack of resources hinder the government’s capacity to address human rights effectively.

What efforts are being made to address social issues in Burundi?

There have been national and international attempts to address social issues and human rights abuse in Burundi. At the national level, policy measures aimed at improving living conditions and human rights have been implemented, albeit with limited success. International organisations, such as the UN, have established missions and projects to support and promote human rights and reconciliation, including the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry on Burundi.

Who are some key figures fighting for human rights in Burundi?

While it is difficult to pinpoint specific individuals, human rights defenders, activists, and members of civil society in Burundi play important roles in advocating for and documenting human rights abuses. They often face risks to their own safety in the process. International human rights advocates, such as Amnesty International, also report on the human rights situation in the country.

What is the role of international organizations in addressing human rights issues in Burundi?

International organisations play a critical role in addressing human rights issues in Burundi. They monitor and document ongoing human rights violations, such as the United Nations’ Commission of Inquiry on Burundi. They also offer support to local civil society organisations working to promote human rights, and advocate for international response and cooperation to improve the human rights situation in Burundi.     

Sources and Resources

If you need to go deeper, here are some useful authority resources and sources drawn from in this article.

• Human Rights Watch – World Report 2021
• Human Rights Watch – World Report 2022

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