The ongoing Burundi crisis has created a significant humanitarian situation in the East, Horn of Africa, and the Great Lakes region, with a large number of people fleeing the country to seek refuge in neighboring nations. As of 2024, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) continues to monitor and support the population of concern, which includes Burundian refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and asylum seekers.

Overview of the Burundi Crisis

The crisis in Burundi has its roots in political unrest and violence that escalated in 2015 following President Pierre Nkurunziza’s decision to run for a controversial third term, which many viewed as unconstitutional. The resulting political instability led to widespread violence, human rights abuses, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. While the situation has stabilized to some degree, many Burundians continue to face challenges related to security, economic hardship, and governance, forcing many to flee their homes.

Population of Concern

According to the UNHCR, the population of concern includes over 300,000 Burundian refugees living in neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The key populations of concern are categorized as:

Burundian Refugees: The largest group consists of refugees who fled Burundi following the political turmoil in 2015. Many of these refugees live in camps in Tanzania, Rwanda, and the DRC, with limited access to essential services like healthcare, education, and employment.

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Within Burundi, there are tens of thousands of people who have been internally displaced due to political violence, natural disasters, and other security issues. These IDPs often live in dire conditions, relying on humanitarian aid for survival.

Asylum Seekers: A smaller group of Burundians is seeking asylum in other countries within the region, particularly in Uganda and Rwanda. These individuals face lengthy asylum processes and limited support from local governments.

UNHCR’s Response and Support

The UNHCR, in collaboration with governments and international partners, continues to provide critical support to Burundians affected by the crisis. Their activities focus on the following key areas:

Protection and Legal Assistance: The UNHCR works to ensure that refugees and IDPs are provided with legal protection, including assistance in obtaining refugee status and asylum. They also advocate for the rights of displaced persons and work to prevent violence, exploitation, and abuse in refugee camps.

Shelter and Basic Needs: Many Burundian refugees live in overcrowded camps with inadequate infrastructure. The UNHCR provides shelter, food, clean water, and sanitation facilities to improve living conditions. In the face of COVID-19 and other health challenges, the UNHCR has also strengthened health services in camps.

Education and Livelihoods: Providing access to education for Burundian children and livelihood opportunities for adults is a key focus of the UNHCR’s efforts. This ensures that refugees have the skills and knowledge to support themselves and their families, reducing dependence on aid.

Voluntary Repatriation: In recent years, the UNHCR has facilitated the voluntary repatriation of thousands of Burundian refugees, particularly from Tanzania. While some refugees have chosen to return to Burundi, many others remain hesitant due to ongoing security concerns and a lack of services and opportunities in their home country.

Current Challenges and Way Forward

The Burundi crisis remains a complex humanitarian issue, with challenges such as funding shortages, political instability, and security concerns in host countries impacting the UNHCR’s ability to provide adequate support. While the situation in Burundi has improved slightly, the socioeconomic and security conditions in the country remain fragile, making it difficult for many refugees to return safely.

The international community and regional governments must continue to work together to support Burundian refugees and IDPs, focusing on long-term solutions like resettlement, integration, and improving conditions for those who choose to return.

Conclusion

The population of concern to the UNHCR in the East, Horn of Africa, and the Great Lakes region remains significant, with hundreds of thousands of Burundians still displaced due to the ongoing crisis. While the UNHCR is providing essential services and protection, the long-term resolution of the Burundi situation will require continued international cooperation and a focus on stability, governance, and economic development in the region.

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