Thank you very much for that question.
When I specified what I was expecting from Canada, those were not my personal ideas. I needed to consult Canada's Burundian community, because this is a very serious matter. It's the first time that Canadians of Burundian origin have had the opportunity to speak with parliamentarians about an important issue in Burundi. I consulted the community, and what I said is from the community.
I spoke about two levels of intervention.
The first concerns Canada. I spoke about the situation of refugees, and of people in Canada who seek refugee protection. I spoke about the refugees outside Burundi and Canada, but also about refugee claimants in Canada who are threatened with expulsion.
I acknowledge that in December 2015, the Canadian government decided to stay the removal of some Burundians. But that makes no difference, because once the diplomatic machine is put in place, and says that things are getting better and better, the 650-plus refugees in Canada will be boarded on the first available plane.
So the first level of intervention concerns Canada. The situation of refugee claimants who are in Canada, and are about to be removed, must be made easier, because they have nowhere to go. Their country is now scorched earth.
The suffering of refugees who live in camps must be alleviated as well. I gave a few examples, but could give at least 20. This isn't something I've made up. It's from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website, so it's in the public domain.
At the international level, I said that Canada can join voices with other countries. Yes, economic sanctions can be effective: more than 60% of Burundi's budget depends on outside assistance. In other countries, it has always produced effects.
It's true that when economic sanctions are taken against the government, it's the people who ultimately suffer. That needs to be clear. However, when the government is deprived of its livelihood, and the major lenders and donors speak out, I'm sure it can make a difference.
I'm very happy that the European Union has already taken a measure in that regard. Instead of supporting the soldiers who are taking part in various peacekeeping missions, and instead of the money flowing through government accounts, the money goes there directly. I think that measure will be effective. I think it would be good if Canada did the same thing.
I need to add one thing.
I've learned that Canada is one of the main backers of the inter-Burundian talks. Canada can use its voice to compel Burundi's government to talk with the opposition and everyone affected by the Burundi question. The government has, in effect, adopted an empty chair policy, but lenders and donors always have a say.