UNICEF Renews Call for Protection and Safety of Children amidst Violence in Burundi

NEW YORK (May 28, 2015) – UNICEF said today it is extremely concerned by evidence of the continued presence of children amidst violent confrontations in Burundi. This situation has led to the death of yet another child in a shooting Monday and the injury of a child struck by a bullet Tuesday.

"UNICEF reminds all parties of their obligation to ensure the safety and protection of children in Burundi, and in particular to ensure that children are kept out of all political demonstrations and actions that put them at risk,” said UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern & Southern Africa, Leila Gharagozloo-Pakkala. “No child should be exposed to or witness violence. A child’s place is in safety and with family; not in the midst of violent confrontations.”

Respect for children’s rights is clearly established under Burundian and international law. Protecting children and upholding their rights is a shared responsibility, including of government and security forces. Children and youth in Burundi should not be involved in violent political actions, nor should they be mobilized to participate in hostilities under any circumstances.

Approximately, 84,000 people, two-thirds of whom are women and children, have fled Burundi as refugees to countries including Tanzania, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. UNICEF is working with UNHCR, OHCHR, WHO and partners to support children in Burundi and those on the move.

About UNICEF

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to put children first. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. The U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports UNICEF's work through fundraising, advocacy and education in the United States. Together, we are working toward the day when no children die from preventable causes and every child has a safe and healthy childhood. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

For more information, contact:

Marci Greenberg, U.S. Fund for UNICEF, 212.922.2464, mgreenberg@unicefusa.org