Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called for a human rights-centered approach in addressing the crises in the Sahel, following the appointment of Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye as the African Union (AU) Special Envoy for the region. In a letter dated last Friday, HRW conveyed its approval of President Ndayishimiye's new role but emphasized the need for a focus on human rights, civilian protection, accountability, and the rule of law in his mandate.

The advocacy group highlighted the necessity of addressing specific human rights issues within the Sahel, which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Among the urgent actions recommended by HRW is the release of all arbitrarily detained political prisoners, including prominent rights activist Moussa Tchangari. HRW also urged President Ndayishimiye to ensure transparent public reporting on efforts to protect civilians and to collaborate closely with AU human rights bodies, such as the AU’s Office on the Prevention of Genocide.

The appointment of President Ndayishimiye by AU chairperson João Lourenço was announced in mid-July. This strategic move aims to reinvigorate diplomatic efforts to tackle the ongoing security and humanitarian challenges in the Sahel region. Allan Ngari, Africa Advocacy Director at HRW, noted that despite Burundi's own complex human rights record, the President's appointment presents an opportunity to promote rights-based governance and enhance human rights across the Sahel.

The Sahel has been plagued by instability, marked by several military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger since 2020. Reports of ethnically targeted killings by pro-government militias and state forces, particularly against the Fulani communities in Burkina Faso, continue to surface. Similarly, Mali has been criticized for extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, while in Niger, the post-coup junta has detained former leaders, revoked citizenships, and imposed stringent civil restrictions.

Despite ongoing counterterrorism measures, including the G5-Sahel Joint Force, France's Operation Barkhane, and the UN's MINUSMA peacekeeping mission, conflict and instability in the region have escalated. The AU's decision to appoint a dedicated envoy is seen as a critical step towards restoring its influence and addressing one of its top priorities in 2025.

This strategic appointment and HRW’s call for a rights-based approach underscore the international community's focus on restoring stability and human rights in the Sahel, illustrating the complex interplay of regional politics, international diplomacy, and human rights advocacy in one of Africa's most turbulent regions.