On the occasion of World Refugee Day 2026, CDH/VICAR issued a statement expressing its solidarity with Burundian refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees who continue to face significant challenges related to displacement, protection, and reintegration. Through this advocacy initiative, the organization paid tribute to the courage, resilience, and dignity of displaced populations while highlighting the urgent need to strengthen international protection mechanisms.
CDH/VICAR drew attention to the deteriorating conditions faced by many Burundian refugees across the East African region. The organization expressed particular concern over developments in Tanzania, where refugees have reportedly been subjected to the demolition of their homes, increasing pressure to return, and various human rights violations. The statement also highlighted the extreme poverty and inadequate living conditions affecting many refugees in camps, including limited access to water, healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities.
As part of its ongoing human rights monitoring work, CDH/VICAR reported continued documentation of allegations involving enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and other forms of violence affecting Burundian refugees in certain refugee camps. The organization emphasized that such practices undermine refugee protection and contribute to a climate of fear and insecurity among already vulnerable populations.
The statement further expressed concern for refugees who have fled camps and are now living in neighboring countries without adequate documentation, humanitarian assistance, or legal protection. CDH/VICAR also highlighted challenges faced by Burundian asylum seekers in some host countries, where declining recognition rates and the risk of refoulement may weaken access to international protection for individuals who continue to fear persecution in their country of origin.
CDH/VICAR additionally raised concerns regarding the situation of some Burundian returnees. Information collected by the organization points to difficulties related to socio-economic reintegration, land disputes, intimidation, surveillance, and, in some cases, arbitrary arrests. These conditions have reportedly led some returnees to flee Burundi again, demonstrating the ongoing obstacles to achieving sustainable and dignified return.
Through this World Refugee Day statement, CDH/VICAR called upon regional governments, UNHCR, the African Union, the United Nations, and international partners to uphold their obligations toward refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to documenting human rights violations, amplifying the voices of affected populations, and advocating for durable solutions based on protection, dignity, international law, and respect for fundamental human rights. States must uphold their commitments.
