Mrs. Jeanne-d’Arc Nteturuye, the Second Counselor at the Burundi Embassy in Addis Ababa, had the honor of representing the Ambassador during the 1st Pre-Session Forum of Member States to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR). This significant forum was held from October 15 to 16, 2024, ahead of the 81st ordinary session of the ACHPR, which took place in Banjul, Gambia, from October 17 to November 6, 2024.
Burundi has long been a committed member of the ACHPR, having ratified and domesticated the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 1989. This milestone positioned Burundi as a strong supporter of human rights on the continent. Throughout the years, Burundi has continued to uphold the principles of the ACHPR, making significant strides in promoting and protecting the rights of its citizens.
During the session in Banjul, Burundi was commended for its continued dedication to the advancement of human rights, particularly for its recent ratification of two key protocols under the ACHPR framework. The first protocol addresses the rights of older persons, an increasingly important issue as Africa’s population ages. By ratifying this protocol, Burundi has demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding the dignity and well-being of older individuals.
The second protocol ratified by Burundi focuses on the rights of persons with disabilities. This action highlights Burundi’s recognition of the importance of protecting the rights of all its citizens, particularly vulnerable groups. By committing to this protocol, Burundi has taken a proactive stance to ensure that persons with disabilities receive the protection and opportunities they deserve, in line with international human rights standards.
The Pre-Session Forum and the 81st ordinary session of the ACHPR provided an important platform for African nations to come together to discuss pressing human rights issues and share progress on implementing the Charter’s principles. Burundi’s active participation, as represented by Mrs. Nteturuye, further illustrates the country’s engagement in continental efforts to promote and protect human rights, as well as its leadership in ratifying important protocols that address the specific needs of older persons and persons with disabilities.
As the sessions continue through early November, Burundi remains committed to furthering the goals of the ACHPR and to contributing to the broader African Union agenda of fostering peace, stability, and human rights across the continent.