Refugees International makes call to keep hope alive

Refugees International has made a strong plea that, while "grim reality has increasingly limited the humanitarian response in Burundi," vulnerable populations in the country should not be left to fend for themselves and the international community should do all it can to assist civil society during the current crisis. "We must make modest investments in transitional relief to development programmes so that people can see that progress is possible. These programmes can be implemented in areas of the country that remain secure. Such programmes build momentum for peace by focusing people on the future instead of the past," it stated in a press release. In addition to assisting the peace process and making clear that development aid will not be provided until security and access for humanitarian workers is provided, donors should work together on plans to put Burundi back on the development path as soon as a ceasefire is in place, Refugees International stated. "Having such plans in place and on the table is one of the most important actions they can take to convince all parties to move quickly to a peaceful resolution," it said, adding that donors and NGOs alike should work closely with civil society groups to support rehabilitation in areas that are secure, and to plan for transitional programmes as soon as they are feasible. [see 'Give Burundi A Chance' document at http:www.refintl.org]