Admin l Thursday, Nov.18, 2021
WASHINGTON – The United States of America has lifted sanctions it earlier imposed on Burundi. The sanctions were lifted based on the decision of President Joe Biden to revoke the Executive Order which brought Burundi under sanction.
Executive Order also lifted visa restrictions on Burundi. “As a result, the sanctions and visa restrictions imposed on the eleven individuals designated under this program have been lifted”, Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken said in a statement.
This decision, he said reflects the changed circumstances in Burundi and President Everiste Ndayishimiye’s pursuit of reforms across multiple sectors over the past year.
According to him, the United States acknowledges the transition of power following Burundian elections in 2020 and reforms being pursued across multiple sectors. “We recognize the progress made by President Ndayishimiye on addressing trafficking in persons, economic reforms, and combating corruption and encourage continued progress”, he said.
Today’s action, Blinken said underscores that U.S. sanctions are responsive to changes in circumstance and may be lifted following positive steps.
He said that a robust civil society is critical to building a peaceful, inclusive future for the benefit of the Burundian people and that it is a key partner in pressing for continued reforms.
“The United States remains firmly committed to supporting human rights defenders, independent media, and other civil society groups that promote transparency and accountability for those responsible for corruption, human rights violations, and abuses.
“The United States, along with partners and allies, will continue to press the Government of Burundi to improve the human rights situation in the country and use other appropriate tools to do so. This includes work with the new UN Special Rapporteur for human rights in Burundi”, he said.
