Human Rights Council 37th session (26 February – 23 March)

Interactive Dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on Burundi

Statement by Ireland

13 March 2018

Ireland aligns itself with the statement of the EU and adds the following.

Mr President.

Ireland thanks the members of the Commission of Inquiry, and especially those who have cooperated with them to highlight violations against Burundians.  We also commend the courage and diligence of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Burundi, who are operating in an extremely difficult environment.

Ireland condemns the ongoing violation of basic rights, including arbitrary arrests, the increasing pressure on civil society space, house searches and restrictions of freedom of expression. We are particularly concerned about the level and persistence of sexual and gender-based violence. Ireland would also like to highlight the ongoing plight of internally displaced people and refugees, who are bearing the brunt of this repressive environment. Refugees returning to Burundi face many challenges and wish to underline the responsibility of the authorities in Burundi to ensure their safety.

Ireland notes the disappointing progress in the ongoing mediation, and calls on all involved, particularly the Burundian government, to renew efforts to reach agreement. The current political impasse is not conducive to free and fair elections in 2020.  We also note with concern the request from the Government that Burundian citizens contribute to an election fund. In a country with high levels of poverty, exacerbated by the political situation, this is unacceptable.

Finally, the proposed constitutional changes are particularly concerning. The Arusha Accords brought peace and stability to Burundi, and revisions that are contrary to the accords represent a threat to democracy and security in Burundi. 

Question: How does the work of the Commission complement or link with the International Criminal Court’s investigation into the alleged crimes in Burundi?

Thank you