Since the civil war in Burundi ended and elections were held in 2005, cooperation between Norway and Burundi has steadily increased. Norway’s chaired the work on Burundi in the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission from 2006 to 2008 and an embassy branch office was opened in 2007.
Norway seeks to assist Burundi and its people in their efforts to lay the foundation for lasting peace, security and development. Burundi has made considerable progress over the last years, but a number of challenges still require much attention, inter alia, related to equitable economic progress, good governance and a responsible and effective justic and security sector.
Norwegian development aid to Burundi amounted to 93 million NOK in 2011 (excluding regional programmes).
State to state contribution was focused on budget support channeled through the a mulit donor trust fund operated by the World Bank for the Economic Reform Support Grant. Norway has been supporting five ERSG operations (2007-2011) The aim is to support reforms in public finance management and development of the private sector and by this assist Burundi in its implemention of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Plan (PRSP).
Norway also channels support through the UN and other multilateral organisations, for example the UN Peace Building Fund of which Norway is one of the largest contributors.
Norway has been supporting the DRR-process in Burundi through World Bank led operations - the regional ”Transitional Demobilization and Reintegration Program in the Great Lakes Region”, and the country-specific Emergency Demobilization and Transitional Re-integration Project”.
In 2010 Norway enterred into agreement with UNDP for support to a project providing technical assistance in the preparations and implementation of the elections. Since the elections the project, which runs through 2012, has had a focus on post-election activities and strengthening of the National Independent Elections Commision ahead of the next elections.
In addition, Norway supports international and local civil society organisations in the field of peacebuilding and conflict management, women’s empowerment and participation, as well as the fight against sexual and gender based violence.
UN agencies and other multilateral organisations supported by Norway active in Burundi
Norway provides direct support to UNDP’s and the World Bank’s operations in Burundi. In addition, Norway is one of the major contributors to UN funds and programmes worldwide.
Civil society organisations receiving Norwegian support in Burundi
CENAP, Interpeace, Accord, Right to Play, Norwegian Refugee Council, Norwegian Church Aid, Care International and International Alert.
Norway is committed to assisting Burundi in the coming years, but it is expected that the Government of Burundi fulfils its part by promoting an enabling environment for democracy, peace, stability and development. This means reducing poverty, security for all, functioning administrative institutions where corruption is sanctioned, as well as a democratic system where all political parties are free to operate.