25 June 2014 – The United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ivan Šimonović, visits Burundi from 25 to 27 June to discuss the human rights situation ahead of next year's presidential elections.

During his visit, Mr. Šimonović is scheduled to meet with the President of the Republic of Burundi and with senior members of the government, including the Ministers of Justice, Public Security, Interior, and of National Solidarity, Human Rights and Gender. He is also expected to meet with the President of the Independent National Human Rights Commission and with representatives of civil society organizations.

Before leaving Burundi, Assistant Secretary-General Šimonović will hold a press conference in Bujumbura on 27 June.

This is Mr. Šimonović's second visit to Burundi. He had previously visited the country from 30 April to 2 May 2012.