In 2024, the Iteka League reported 447 people killed, including 226 bodies found. In addition, 144 people were documented as victims of gender-based violence (GBV), with 110 minors and 29 women affected by sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). In addition, there were 39 cases of abductions and/or disappearances, 36 cases of torture, and 235 arbitrary arrests.
However, the year 2025 did not bring any notable changes or significant improvements. Gender-based violence, particularly against women and children, remains a concern in Burundi, as illustrated by alarming rates of domestic and sexual violence. Schoolgirls who are victims of acts committed by adults often find themselves pregnant, which sometimes leads to forced marriage as a solution, often under family pressure. Girls bear the brunt of this violence, which takes the form of forced marriages and sexual assault. In cases of unwanted pregnancy, these young women resort to abortion or infanticide, unable to meet the financial and educational needs of their children. Read more