United Nations Security Council Resolution 1602

United Nations Security Council resolution1602, adopted unanimously on 31 May 2005, after recalling resolutions 1545 (2004), 1565 (2004), 1577 (2004) and 1596 (2005) on the situation in Burundi, the Council extended the mandate of the United Nations Operation in Burundi (ONUB) for a period of six months until 1 December 2005.

Observations
The Security Council reiterated its support for the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement signed in Arusha in 2000, calling on the relevant parties to honour their commitments under the agreement. It highlighted positive developments that had taken place since the ONUB mission was deployed, including the approval of a constitution in a referendum and the signing of a peace agreement between President Domitien Ndayizeye and leader of the Palipehutu-FNL rebel group. Furthermore, the imminent holding of elections was welcomed, along with reform of the security sector, and the greater participation of women in politics was encouraged.

Meanwhile, all violence, violations of human rights and the massacre of civilians at Gatumba were condemned. The Council considered that ending impunity was essential for bringing peace to the African Great Lakes region.

Acts
Acting under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, the Council called on Burundian parties to ensure the stability of the country through the transitional period and national reconciliation. It awaited a report of the Secretary-General Kofi Annan's report concerning the role of the United Nations and Burundi and how it could support the peace process, including a possible restructuring of ONUB's mandate and strength. Additionally, the Council looked forward to the Secretary General's proposal to establish a post-transitional support mechanism in Burundi.

Finally, the Security Council welcomed ONUB's attempts to implement the zero-tolerance sexual exploitation policy, and the Secretary-General was asked to report on the situation in Burundi at regular intervals.