Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Burundi
Human Rights Council – 54th Session
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
As Delivered by Jeffrey A. Regner
Thank you, Mr. President.
The United States is heartened by some steps the Government of Burundi has taken to hold members of the ruling party accountable for charges of human rights abuses and corruption. However, we remain deeply concerned by ongoing reports of human rights violations and abuses by state security forces and the Imbonerakure.
We urge the government to thoroughly investigate and prosecute cases of alleged extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, sexual violence, torture, and other human rights violations and abuses.
We note the work Burundi’s Independent National Commission on Human Rights has done to document human rights abuses and to expedite and increase access to judicial processes. We urge Burundian authorities to guarantee its formal and material independence and to provide it with the necessary resources to implement its mandate.
We are deeply troubled by the Government’s recent suspension of the main opposition party’s activities. We call on the Government to restore political pluralism, especially ahead of the 2025 elections.
The United States calls on the Government to grant access to the Special Rapporteur, in line with its public commitments to advance respect for human rights and to reengage the international community.
Mr. Special Rapporteur, what tangible steps can the Government of Burundi take to improve its human rights situation?
I thank you.
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