Burundi’s human rights and civil liberties continue to deteriorate, with severe government repression of political opposition and independent media. Economic crises, violence, and human rights abuses are rampant, especially in the lead-up to the 2025 elections, amidst ongoing tensions in the Great Lakes region.
In 2025, Burundi continues to experience severe restrictions on civil liberties, with the government suppressing civil society, independent media, and political opposition. Human rights violations remain unpunished, especially for offenses committed during the 2015 crisis. The current security situation is concerning, with enforced disappearances and arbitrary detentions ahead of the upcoming legislative and municipal elections.
Burundi is grappling with an economic crisis marked by 26% inflation and over half its population living in poverty, as reported by the United Nations. Chronic shortages of fuel, water, and electricity exacerbate these issues, impairing essential public services critical for health care and education.
The ruling CNDD-FDD party maintains tight control over political institutions, the National Intelligence Service, and the Imbonerakure youth league. The Imbonerakure have committed numerous abuses against perceived political opponents. Additionally, hate speech and inflammatory rhetoric have increased, including from high-ranking officials, further polarizing the political environment.
In April 2024, a new electoral code increased the cost of candidacy, with presidential candidates required to pay 100 million Burundian Francs (around US$34,700). This creates barriers for potential candidates, particularly affecting the only prominent opposition leader, Agathon Rwasa, who has faced internal party turmoil and increased pressures from the government.
On January 17, the interior minister accused the CNL party of terrorist collaboration and issued threats, while the CNL planned a convention to address internal issues. Subsequently, the party experienced significant restructuring, leading to the removal of Rwasa from leadership.
Journalists and human rights defenders have faced ongoing threats and repression. A presidential pardon allowed journalist Floriane Irangabiye to be released, but others, like Sandra Muhoza, remain in arbitrary detention. Incidents against Iwacu, one of the last independent media outlets, highlight the danger posed to journalistic enterprises.
The media landscape remains precarious as the government revised media laws without adequate consultation, leaving many provisions non-compliant with international standards. Despite some decriminalization efforts, fines for violations can reach 1.5 million Burundian francs (approximately $520).
Women’s rights and protections against gender-based violence remain inadequately addressed, with notable instances of harassment faced by non-married couples. OECD recognizes 19% of girls under 18 are married, further underscoring the lack of government intervention in these issues.
Security conditions are deteriorating as violent incidents, including killings attributed to the RED-Tabara armed group, have intensified in border areas. The government attributed such violence to external influences, particularly from Rwanda, heightening regional tensions and provoking a diplomatic fallout.
The International Criminal Court continues its investigation into historical human rights abuses in Burundi. Moreover, accusations against Burundi’s National Independent Human Rights Commission suggest a lack of independence, limiting protection for human rights in the country, while cultural stigmas persist for LGBTQ+ individuals amidst a backdrop of adversarial legal frameworks against sexual orientation.
In summary, Burundi faces alarming human rights conditions, characterized by governmental repression, economic hardship, diminishing civil liberties, and rising violence. The ruling party’s monopoly on power stifles political opposition, while media and human rights defenders confront ongoing dangers. Additionally, regional tensions with neighboring countries complicate the security landscape. The international community must remain vigilant and responsive to the deteriorating human rights situation in Burundi.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
