The restrictive measures imposed since 2016 on cooperation between the EU and Burundi under Article 96 of the Cotonou Agreement have been lifted.
The Council of the EU decided without debate on Tuesday 8 February to repeal decision 2016/394 by which the EU had partially suspended its cooperation with the African country due to insufficient commitments by the Burundian authorities to a lasting solution to the crisis arising from the disputed re-election of President Pierre Nkurunziza in 2015 (see EUROPE 11511/11).
These restrictive measures consisted of the suspension of financial support and disbursement of funds directly to the Burundian administration or institutions, including budget support.
The repeal of these sanctions is motivated by the successful conclusion of the peaceful political process initiated with the general elections in May 2020, which brings a glimmer of hope to the people of Burundi, the EU Council underlines (see EUROPE 12502/15).
Since these elections, the EU has noted the progress made by the Burundian government with regard to human rights, good governance and the rule of law, as well as the commitments made in its roadmap for further improvements in these areas. In addition, a large number of refugees have returned voluntarily to Burundi and cooperation with the international community and neighbouring countries has been revived.
In the framework of the political dialogue with Burundi, the EU stands ready to support the ongoing efforts of the Burundian authorities to stabilise and consolidate democratic institutions, promote human rights, good governance and the rule of law.
These are the essential elements set out in Article 9 of the Cotonou Agreement, the violation of which led to the restrictive measures. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)