“Say No to Stoning of the LGBTQI+ Community in Burundi”: A Call for International Solidarity

By The Inspirer.

The recent alarming statement by the President of Burundi, urging citizens to stone members of the LGBTQI+ community, has ignited grave concerns within the LGBTQI+ community in Burundi and across the Great Lakes countries. These individuals already face homophobic attacks and imprisonment, making the President’s call a further threat to their safety and rights.

The President’s statement has had a profoundly negative impact on the LGBTQI+ community in Burundi, not only inciting violence but also perpetuating harmful stereotypes that label LGBTQI+ individuals as less deserving of basic human rights and dignity. This dangerous rhetoric fosters a culture of impunity, making it increasingly difficult for the LGBTQI+ community to seek protection and justice.

As a result of the President’s statement, there has been a surge in homophobic attacks and discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals in Burundi, creating an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. This climate makes it even more challenging for community members to access essential services such as healthcare and education.

In the wake of the President’s statement and the escalating violence and discrimination against the LGBTQI+ community, many members are living in fear, feeling threatened, and facing increased marginalization. Some are even contemplating fleeing the country to escape persecution.

International human rights norms and treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), provide a common framework for the protection and promotion of human rights. These agreements emphasize the right to life, liberty, and security of person; freedom of expression; and protection from discrimination.

The Human Rights First Rwanda Association urgently calls upon the Burundian Government to adhere to the international human rights norms and treaties they have committed to. The government must refrain from endangering the lives and rights of the LGBTQI+ community, recognizing them as a highly marginalized and vulnerable group in the country.

Given the egregious acts of violence and human rights abuses against the LGBTQI+ community in the Great Lakes region, from the recent anti-homosexuality act in Uganda to the call for stoning in Burundi, it is evident that there is an urgent need for international organizations and the global community to take a stand against such actions.

No one should be condemned for who they love and how they live their sexual lives. Every person has the right to love and be loved without prejudice or discrimination.

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