Deadline: 10-Oct-2025
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has launched a comprehensive protection initiative across ten provinces of Burundi, including Muyinga, Bubanza, Rumonge, Makamba, Ngozi, Cibitoke, Bujumbura Mairie, Rutana, Cankuzo, and Ruyigi.
The program addresses the urgent needs of refugees, returnees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, and stateless people, with a focus on protection, gender-based violence, child protection, community empowerment, health, and reintegration.
The project is structured around six outcome areas. First, under the policy and legal framework component, the initiative seeks to strengthen the capacities of national and local institutions in implementing international and national legal instruments for the protection of displaced and stateless persons. This effort will ensure an inclusive protection framework that is operational and effective across the country.
In the area of gender-based violence, the program prioritizes prevention and response mechanisms. Refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees—particularly women and girls—will benefit from environments where risks of violence, exploitation, and abuse are reduced. Survivors of gender-based violence will be supported through a quality, multisectoral response, ensuring timely assistance and long-term protection.
Child protection is another major focus. The project aims to safeguard children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation by strengthening child-friendly systems and inclusive services. Families and communities will be equipped to identify and prevent child protection risks, while adolescents and children will have access to timely and high-quality prevention and response services in line with their best interests.
At the community level, the initiative emphasizes empowerment and inclusion. By 2027, refugees in camps and urban areas such as Bujumbura and Rumonge will be more involved in community life, with targeted efforts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. Community feedback mechanisms will be reinforced, and services for people with specific needs—both refugees and returnees—will be strengthened to ensure inclusivity and dignity.
Health and psychosocial support are integral components of the project. UNHCR is committed to ensuring that all people of concern have access to health services that meet international standards, including mental health and psychosocial support tailored to vulnerable populations.
Finally, the project addresses the sustainable reintegration of returnees. By supporting the repatriation process and strengthening social and economic reintegration in communities of origin, the initiative ensures that returning Burundians can rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.
Overall, this protection project represents a multi-faceted and inclusive approach to humanitarian response in Burundi. By integrating legal support, protection mechanisms, child and community empowerment, health services, and reintegration efforts, UNHCR aims to create a safer and more resilient environment for refugees, returnees, and displaced communities across the country.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.