NEW YORK, JUNE 12 – The preparation of the 2020 elections in Burundi requires considerable attention, also by the Peacebuilding Commission. It is crucial for Burundi to hold free, fair, inclusive, peaceful and democratic elections in 2020, Italy said during a meeting of the PCB at UN Headquarters.
“In order to achieve such a result, Italy believes that it is essential to continue an inclusive political dialogue among all the relevant political actors in Burundi, in the spirit and the letter of the Arusha agreement. Such a dialogue should take place in an open political space, in which the press can play its key role of informing the Burundian people.
In this regard, Italy attaches the greatest importance to the role of the region. “We stand ready to support Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in continuing the excellent work done by former President Mkapa as facilitator of the Inter-Burundian dialogue under the auspices of the East African Community. The PBC – according to Italy – should continue to liaise with the countries of the region, which should lead any initiatives”.
On the socio-economic dialogue, Italy agrees with the Chair that the PBC should continue to remain engaged in supporting the implementation of the National Development Plan presented by the Government: “We consider it as an essential component of the strategy for peacebuilding and sustaining peace in Burundi”.
Convinced that the creation of a conducive environment for the full realization of human rights is also essential in paving the way for free and fair elections and that the participation and empowerment of youth and women is, in this perspective, of paramount importance, Italy encourages the Authorities to engage with the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in order, inter alia, to reopen the Office of the High Commissioner in Bujumbura.
The humanitarian situation deserves also UN attention. While recognizing that some progress has been achieved, more has to be done to respond to critical needs of the population, particularly concerning the level of food insecurity. (@OnuItalia)
