Security Council urges rejection of confrontation, violence, extremism.

• Position: Burundi

Concerned about the escalating violence in Burundi, the Security Council on 22 December urged all sides to reject confrontational tactics, violence or extremism, and to work towards compromise and conciliation in a spirit of national unity which transcended ethnic orgins.

In a statement by Council President Manzi Bakuramutsa of Rwanda, it expressed concern over the escalation of violence in Burundi which threatened to further destabilize an already fragile situation and could endanger the subregion's stability. It supported efforts by Burundi authorities to ensure that those committing or inciting the commitment of acts of violence were held accountable and that the militias still operating in Bujumbura and in the countryside were disarmed.

The Council encouraged the Government, the National Assembly, the political parties and all others concerned, in particular the army, to respect and support the 10 September 1994 Convention of Government and thus avoid jeopardizing the balance and relative stability in place since its implementation. It welcomed efforts towards further political progress in Burundi and underlined the importance of continuing to resolve all outstanding issues through dialogue on the basis of agreements reached thus far by the political parties.

Threat deplored

On 21 October, the Council deplored the fact that extremist elements continued to threaten national reconciliation in Burundi, including through the operation of a clandestine radio station inciting ethnic hatred and violence.

In a statement by its President, Sir David Hannay of the United Kingdom, the Council welcomed the election and the swearing in of Burundi's President, the confirmation in office of the Prime Minister, and the formation of the new coalition Government as important steps forward in the stabilization of the situation. It called on all parties to cooperate in the work of reestablishing democracy and stability.

The Council reaffirmed the importance of bringing to justice those responsible for the 21 October 1993 coup and the subsequent inter-ethnic massacres and other violations of international humanitarian law. It also encouraged the Secretary-General to pursue his suggestion that UN assistance be provided to the Government of Burundi in strengthening its judicial system.

The Council welcomed the dispatch of a UN Special Envoy to study the refugee crisis from a regional perspective. It encouraged the efforts to convene an international conference...