Context
Increasing political turmoil in neighbouring Burundi and DRC has not significantly affected the security situation in Rwanda. Civilian authorities maintained effective control over security forces. There are functioning mechanisms to investigate and punish abuse and corruption. In a referendum in December 2015, Rwandan citizens voted in favour of constitutional amendments that allow President Paul Kagame to run for a third term in 2017 and two additional five-year terms thereafter. Due to restrictions on media, freedom of speech and the operation of opposition parties, there is generally no level playing field for free and fair elections. On the economic front, Rwanda met hard headwinds. A severe drought in the Eastern province affected food production. Continued low prices for minerals, coffee and tea led to a severe shortfall in foreign revenues, which negatively impacted imports and economic growth. Genuine economic growth in the second half of 2016 almost grinded to a halt. Reduced government spending also contributed to this slowdown. Nevertheless, the programmes supported by the Netherlands managed to realise positive results in the fields of Food Security, Security and Rule of Law and Women's Rights and Gender Equality. This resulted in a further reduction of stunting among children, increased access to justice and greater gender equality. In addition, social indicators, such as access to education and health, further improved.