Escalating increase in violence and tension in Burundi

Due to the increase in violence and in the tense security situation in Burundi, the UN Security Council is sending up to 228 United Nation’s (U.N.) police forces to monitor the situation and attempt to keep violence in check.

Today, more than 1,000 people participated in a government-backed protest against the deployment of U.N. police.

Violence has been reported across the country and the security situation has been increasingly unstable. Over 400 people have died in the turmoil since April 2015. Hundreds of thousands have fled the country. Security forces and opposition engage in armed clashes regularly. Violent crime has increased.

Advice

Some countries recommend that citizens avoid all travel to Burundi at this time. Avoid all demonstrations or large gatherings of people. With respect to personal safety, be vigilant in your surroundings constantly. In Bujumbura, avoid Kanyosha, Musaga, Kamenge Cibitoke, Ngagara, Nyakabiga and Bujumbura-rural where there have been violent confrontations and protests.