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, including arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and sexual violence, while noting some positive steps such as the release of a few political prisoners. The statement was made during an interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi.
The EU reiterated its support for the Special Rapporteur's mandate despite difficult conditions, and called on Burundian authorities to end impunity through rigorous, independent, and impartial investigations. It deplored the lack of credible inquiries and the absence of cooperation with International Criminal Court investigations into alleged crimes against humanity committed by Burundian nationals between 26 April 2015 and 26 October 2017. The EU also expressed concern over restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, as well as systematic hindrances to press freedom, noting that intimidation and reprisals against civil society actors, human rights defenders, journalists, and bloggers are often attributed to the police, the National Intelligence Service, and the Imbonerakure youth militia.
On the humanitarian front, the EU highlighted the strain on Burundi's fragile health, water, and food security systems as the country hosts thousands of refugees. 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 called on the government to grant the Special Rapporteur unrestricted access to the country and to implement recommendations from the former Commission of Inquiry. It also urged ensuring the independence of national human rights institutions, particularly the National Independent Human Rights Commission, and allowing the reopening of the UN Human Rights Office in Burundi.
The statement concluded with a question to the Special Rapporteur on the main obstacles to implementing the Commission of Inquiry's recommendations five years after its final report.
The EU's statement puts diplomatic pressure on the Burundian government, potentially influencing its international standing and access to EU development aid. For Burundian civil society and journalists, the EU's public support may offer some protection but also risks further targeting by authorities. The Special Rapporteur's mandate gains political backing, which could facilitate access and cooperation. The ICC's investigations into Burundi receive renewed EU endorsement, though no new concrete measures were announced.