Background

Cycle of violence

Burundi's recent history has been marked by a cycle of violence that started in 1972. Numerous coups d’état took place which saw the targeted massacre of civilians along ethnic lines. The resulting cycle of "revenge" killings between Hutus and Tutsis culminated in the civil war in 1993, devastating the country for more than a decade.

In 2005, peaceful elections led to the establishment of a democratically elected government and Burundi’s future was looking upwards as the last rebel group, Palipehutu-FNL, finally signed the peace accord between 2008 and 2009.

2010 election led to another outbreak of violence

However, the recent election cycle of 2010 led to yet another political crisis and growing insecurity. Following the communal elections, the opposition parties contested the results for irregularities and withdrew from the subsequent rounds. The governing party, CNDD-FDD,  came back to power without having to face any opponents. Leaders of opposing parties went into hiding and rumors of a new rebel movement have been circulating ever since the electoral period ended. The country is facing growing acts of banditry and armed attacks creating a climate of unrest and insecurity.

Facing the challenges to peace

The population of Burundi, who was expecting so much from peace in terms of economic development and safety, is experiencing growing disappointment. It is against this backdrop that the government and the population are facing enormous challenges.

These include issues as diverse and widespread as reconciliation, dealing with the past, land reform, economic development, security and democratization. Added to this is the difficult relationship between the government, the opposition and civil society. Such a divisive environment is not conducive to implementing the reforms necessary to rebuild peace and stability. It is crucial that Burundians are enabled to work together to stabilize the country and consolidate its fragile peace.