The World Report 2025 indicates ongoing human rights violations in Burundi, marked by government restrictions on civil society and media, economic crises, violence against vulnerable groups, and persistent impunity for past abuses. The report highlights issues such as the arrest of journalists, the significant barrier to electoral participation created by a new electoral code, and the increasing threats against LGBTQ+ individuals.
The World Report 2025 outlines concerning trends in Burundi regarding the restriction of civil society, independent media, and political opposition. There persists a high level of impunity for human rights violations, notably those linked to the 2015 crisis, amid a declining security situation leading up to the 2025 legislative and municipal elections. Enforced disappearances and arbitrary detentions raise significant alarms in this context.
Burundi faces a significant economic crisis, with a reported inflation rate of 26 percent and over half of the population living in poverty. The United Nations highlights shortages of essential services, including fuel, water, and electricity, which are vital for health care and education rights.
The ruling party, CNDD-FDD, maintains strict control over national institutions and employs the Imbonerakure youth league as a violent enforcement arm. Reports indicate that the Imbonerakure engage in various abuses, including harassment and killings of suspected opposition members, all while promoting inflammatory rhetoric.
A new electoral code was enacted, imposing heightened registration fees for candidates, which poses significant barriers to political participation. This code introduces a two-year waiting period for candidates wishing to run independently after leaving a political party, noticeably impacting Agathon Rwasa and his potential candidacy in the upcoming elections.
Journalists and human rights defenders continue to face repression; an August pardon allowed journalist Floriane Irangabiye to be released, but Sandra Muhoza remains unjustly imprisoned. Media outlet Iwacu has undergone numerous threats and incidents of harassment, reflecting a troubling media freedom landscape exacerbated by a newly revised media law that inadequately aligns with international standards.
Moreover, the government has failed to combat gender-based violence, with child marriage affecting 19 percent of girls. Authorities have improperly evicted non-legally married cohabiting couples and coerced individuals into compliance with additional familial restrictions, under the guise of moral governance.
Amid growing violence from armed groups like RED-Tabara, Burundi’s security situation remains precarious, with multiple deadly attacks reported. Tensions in the region have escalated due to accusations against Rwanda for supporting RED-Tabara, alongside Burundi’s military engagements against other armed groups.
Oversight from international bodies is hindered by Burundi’s refusal to comply with human rights obligations and denials of access to investigators. The National Independent Human Rights Commission suffers from a lack of operational independence, further preventing effective human rights protections.
In terms of sexual orientation and gender identity, the penal code still criminalizes same-sex relations, and public rhetoric has incited violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, threatening their safety and dignity in society.
In conclusion, the 2025 World Report paints a grim picture of the human rights situation in Burundi. With severe restrictions on civil society, independent media, and political opposition, alongside a deteriorating economic landscape and increasing violence, the prospects for democratic participation appear bleak. Continuous repression of journalists, gender-based violence, and punitive laws targeting marginalized communities underscore the urgent need for accountability and reform within the framework of international human rights standards.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
