The Independent National Commission for Human Rights in Burundi (CNIDH) commemorated the 35th anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) with a call to strengthen efforts to protect and promote children’s rights.
The event, marked under the theme, “Let’s listen to the future. Let’s defend the rights of the child,” highlighted both progress and persistent challenges in ensuring children’s rights in the country.
In a statement delivered during the occasion, CNIDH President Sixte Vigny Nimuraba acknowledged the significant strides Burundi has made in child welfare.
These include free healthcare for children under five, a high vaccination coverage rate, free basic education, and the introduction of inclusive schools for children living with disabilities.
“Burundi has demonstrated political will to ensure that children enjoy their rights,” Nimuraba said, referencing the country’s ratification of the CRC and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, which are enshrined in the Burundian Constitution under Article 9.
He also highlighted initiatives such as child protection committees across the country, the establishment of school canteens, and a specialized justice system for minors, which ensures timely handling of cases involving children.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite this progress, the CNIDH president pointed to lingering challenges that threaten children’s well-being.
Among them are school dropouts due to early pregnancies, child labor, drug use, and the growing phenomenon of children living on the streets. Other obstacles include natural disasters, emigration, and limited access to education for children in rural areas.
Nimuraba also addressed the plight of children born and raised in prisons due to the incarceration of their mothers. He emphasized that the law requires children to leave prison upon reaching the age of three and called for improved measures to support their reintegration into society.
The issue of child trafficking and abuse, particularly among children emigrating to neighboring countries like Tanzania, also remains a pressing concern.
While CNIDH assists in repatriation efforts and collaborates with state institutions to prosecute traffickers, Nimuraba stressed the need for comprehensive policies to address this problem.
Calls for Action
On this anniversary, the CNIDH urged the Burundian government to take further steps to enhance child protection. Among its recommendations were:
– The adoption of a Single Code for the Protection of Children to strengthen the legal framework.
– Making basic education compulsory to reduce school dropouts.
– Increasing budget allocations for inclusive schools to support children with disabilities.
– Developing a clear policy to address the issue of children living on the streets.
Nimuraba emphasized the importance of a coordinated effort among public institutions, civil society, and international organizations to create lasting solutions.
Global Context
World Children’s Day, observed annually on November 20, commemorates the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the CRC in 1989. It serves as a platform to promote awareness of children’s rights and foster global solidarity in improving their welfare.
“Today reminds us that the future depends on how we protect and invest in our children,” Nimuraba said.
Looking Ahead
While Burundi has made commendable progress, challenges persist in fully realizing the rights of all children. This year’s commemoration serves as a reminder of the work still needed to address these challenges and build a brighter future for Burundi’s youngest generation.
The CNIDH’s call for action is a clarion call to all stakeholders—government leaders, educators, parents, and the international community—to renew their commitment to defending the rights of children and ensuring their well-being.