MUKAZA, Feb 24 (ABP) – The chairman of the Burundian Association for Development, Democracy and Human Rights (AB3D), Sylvère Nibaruta, on Saturday, February 21, 2026, opened a workshop organized in collaboration with the International Youth Network and the Francophonie (RIJF), under the theme “Building a vibrant democracy in our communities.”
The meeting brought together young people engaged in associative, university and community life, with the aim of strengthening their role in local governance and the promotion of human rights.
| The president of AB3D, Sylvère Nibaruta |
In his opening speech, the chairman of AB3D first indicated that the workshop aimed to promote dialogue and the sharing of experiences around democracy, while identifying concrete actions to improve citizen participation. He emphasized that a vibrant democracy is based on the active, responsible and inclusive involvement of citizens, particularly young people and women. On that occasion, he welcomed the active participation of the youth. He therefore invited them to become key actors of a vibrant democracy within their communities.
The discussions focused on the fundamental principles of democracy, human rights and local governance. The participants highlighted several challenges hindering youth civic engagement, including the lack of civic education, low representation in local decision-making bodies, sociocultural barriers, as well as poverty.
To address these challenges, the participants recommended that the Burundian government strengthen civic education; create permanent spaces for dialogue between young people, local authorities and civil society; encourage the participation of young people and women in local decision-making bodies; and use the media and digital tools to promote civic engagement.
They also advocated for strengthening partnerships among community actors and promoting a culture of responsibility and civic accountability.