There are significant concerns regarding the coercive repatriation of Burundian refugees from Tanzania, many of whom fear political persecution upon returning home.
Concerns are escalating regarding the coercive nature of repatriation efforts towards Burundian refugees residing in Tanzania. As of November 2025, Tanzania is hosting over 140,000 Burundian refugees, who fled their country due to prolonged civil unrest and violence. Although many have been involved in voluntary repatriation processes, significant numbers express reluctance to return, citing fears of political persecution and threats to their safety once back in Burundi.
The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has raised alarms, indicating that up to 17,000 refugees are currently unable to return home safely due to fears of political persecution, particularly among opposition party members and former military personnel. Bahia Egeh, a UNHCR official based in Tanzania, emphasized the importance of humanitarian advocacy against forced repatriation, asserting that coercive measures should not be utilized against these vulnerable populations.
Additionally, reports from the refugees suggest that coercive tactics may be employed during the repatriation process, which further compounds their fears and uncertainty about returning home. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between countries in the region and the need for careful consideration of the rights and safety of refugees in repatriation discussions.
