On 17 April 2023, ISHR submitted its annual submission to the report to the UN Secretary General on reprisals and intimidation against defenders engaging or seeking to engage with the UN and its human rights mechanisms.
On 22 September 2022, Fortuné Gaetan Zongo presented his first written report, in accordance with resolution 48/16 establishing his mandate as UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Burundi.
Following the adoption of resolution 48/16, a mandate of UN Special Rapporteur on Burundi was established. During its 49th session, the Human Rights Council appointed Fortuné Gaetan Zongo as the mandate holder. On 29 June 2022, he presented his first oral update during the 50th session of the Council.
Despite the Burundian government’s efforts, the human rights situation in the country remains a matter of concern. During the presentation of its report, the Commission of Inquiry underscored the necessity to take more significative actions to pave the way towards sociopolitical stabilization and democracy.
Tech tools can provide great opportunities and challenges to document human rights violations, notably in contexts of acute crisis.
Following the reduction of his unjustified prison sentence, the Burundian human rights defender is finally free! ISHR joins Germain and his family in their joy and thanks everyone who contributed to his release!
Germain Rukuki's right to a swift and fair appeal against his prison sentence must be upheld, says a coalition of 43 NGOs in a joint letter to Burundi authorities.
In order for the international human rights system to function to its fullest potential, human rights defenders must be able to share crucial information and perspectives, safely and unhindered. However, many defenders still face unacceptable risks and are unable to cooperate safely with the UN.
In order for the international human rights system to function to its fullest potential, human rights defenders must be able to share crucial information and perspectives, safely and unhindered. However, many defenders still face unacceptable risks and are unable to cooperate safely with the UN.
On 11 March 2021, the Commission of Inquiry on Burundi updated the Human Rights Council on the situation in the country. While recognising the efforts made by the government to strengthen democracy, it also highlighted that there is still a long way to go to end human rights violations and impunity in the country.
