The European Union, in a statement delivered on 29 June 2026 at the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council, expressed deep concern over the persistent human rights situation in Burundi, citing arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and sexual violence. The EU also condemned the systematic curtailment of freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, as well as the intimidation of civil society actors, human rights defenders, and journalists, often attributed to police, the National Intelligence Service, and the Imbonerakure youth militia.
The statement was made during an interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi. The EU acknowledged some positive developments, such as the release of a few political prisoners, but stressed that serious violations continue. It called on Burundian authorities to end impunity through rigorous, independent, and impartial investigations, and deplored the lack of credible inquiries and cooperation with the International Criminal Court's investigations into alleged crimes against humanity committed between 26 April 2015 and 26 October 2017.
The EU also highlighted the humanitarian situation in Burundi, which hosts thousands of refugees despite pressure on its fragile health, water, and food security systems. It positively noted Burundi's participation in the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in November 2025 and encouraged the country to fully re-engage with UN human rights mechanisms. The EU urged the government to grant the Special Rapporteur unrestricted access to the country and to implement recommendations from the former Commission of Inquiry.
Furthermore, the EU called for ensuring the independence of national human rights institutions, particularly the National Independent Human Rights Commission (CNIDH), and for transparent and inclusive appointment procedures. It also encouraged authorities to allow the reopening of the UN Human Rights Office in Burundi as a sign of cooperation and technical support.
The statement reflects the EU's ongoing diplomatic pressure on Burundi, though no new concrete measures or sanctions were announced. The EU's position balances recognition of limited progress with strong criticism of systemic abuses, impacting stakeholders such as Burundian civil society and human rights defenders (who may face increased risk if the government reacts negatively), the Burundian government (which faces international scrutiny), and the UN Special Rapporteur (whose mandate is supported but whose access remains restricted). The EU's call for ICC cooperation also signals continued international legal pressure.