EU calls for inclusive process of constitutional reforms and for human rights to be observed

With less than ten days to go until the constitutional referendum to be held in Burundi on 17 May, the European Union, on Tuesday 8 May, expressed its grave concerns at the ongoing climate of intimidation and repression and the lack of consensual approach between the different social and political groups in this final phase of preparations for the referendum. 

In a statement, the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, also notes the lack of official public information on key elements of the draft Constitution and stresses that tight controls on journalists and the media could further compromise this process. 

The EU therefore backs the African Union’s calls to initiate all constitutional reforms through a broad national consensus of all stakeholders. 

The EU also expresses grave concerns at the human rights situation in the country, particularly ongoing extrajudicial executions and arbitrary arrests, including that of human rights activists such as Germain Rukuki. 

It stresses that the implementation of the two resolutions of the 36^th session of the human rights council in Geneva remains a political priority, calling on the authorities of the country to respect the spirit and the letter of the Arusha peace agreements. The EU stresses that, in coordination with the principal international partners, it will continue its efforts to support inclusive dialogue, the only viable process for a permanent political settlement in Burundi.  (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)