On Thursday 5 July, the European Parliament once again expressed its deep concern at the ongoing impunity and continued violations of human rights in Burundi, such as summary executions, torture, forcible disappearances and arbitrary arrests. This message is expressed in a resolution that was adopted by show of hands.
Parliament reminds the authorities of their obligation to cooperate fully with the committee of investigation into Burundi and with the team of three experts of the United Nations. It appeals to the government to respect its international obligations in the field of human rights and civil rights and to protect rights to freedom of expression and of association set out in the international covenant on civil and political rights.
Parliament again denounces acts of intimidation, repression and harassment of journalists and human rights defenders. It urges the authorities to respect the rule of law and the fundamental rights, such as the right to the freedom of expression and the freedom of the media. It calls for the immediate and unconditional release of five human rights defenders and an investigation into the situation of journalist Jean Bigirimana.
The MEPs call for an end to any further payments to the Burundian troops engaged in UN and AU peacekeeping missions, which have been used by the government to conceal domestic problems in the country. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)