Sanctions Briefing: Burundi
(S,P) Burundi is currently subject to sanctions. Find out about the latest applicable laws and who is on sanctions' lists
Context
This sanctions regime is aimed at encouraging the government of Burundi to:
respect democratic principles and institutions, the rule of law and good governance in Burundi
participate in negotiations with its political opponents in good faith to bring about a peaceful solution to the political situation in Burundi
refrain from policies or activities which repress civil society in Burundi
comply with international human rights law and respect human rights
The laws of nations impose asset freezes directed against those who are involved in commissioning serious human rights violations or abuses, obstructing the search for a peaceful solution to the political situation in Burundi, repressing civil society and democratic opposition and those who undermine democracy, the rule of law or good governance.
Background
Burundian officials are seen to be responsible for the violent repression in the country orchestrated by the government since 2015. Individuals will continue to be under restrictive measures for their actions undermining democracy or obstructing the search for a political solution to the crisis in Burundi, or for their involvement in violations of international human rights law or international humanitarian law.
Widespread human rights violations continue to be committed across the country, not least by the ruling party’s militia, Imbonerakure. Several human rights defenders are still arbitrarily detained, such as Germain Rukuki, Nestor Nibitanga and the four IWACU journalists. Meanwhile, the government has not taken any steps to bring the perpetrators of violations to justice, including the ones targeted by the sanctions, thereby reinforcing a climate of impunity that favours the repetition of crimes.
The individuals under sanctions retain influential positions within the state apparatus, along with other individuals who played a key role in the unprecedented crackdown that started in 2015. Their appointment to key positions within the new government is a cause for grave concern, as this not only allows them to continue planning and committing violations but also shows the new President has no intention to operate any fundamental change in the deadly security policies carried by his predecessor.
FIDH and its member organisation in Burundi Ligue ITEKA have conducted major advocacy work at nations like the UK or the EU and the UN on the human rights situation in the country for the past few years.
UK Regulations
The Burundi (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019
The Sanctions (EU Exit) (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 2) Regulations 2020
The Sanctions (EU Exit) (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2020
Read more: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/financial-sanctions-burundi
Download Guidance
EU regulations
01.10.2015 Council Regulation (EU) No 2015/1755 (“the Regulation”) concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Burundi
Latest Legislative Change Monitor
18.10.2021 Prolongation of sanctions
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