Politics
Burkina Faso expels two European Union diplomats amid rising tensions
Two European Union diplomats stationed in Ouagadougou have been declared persona non grata by Burkina Faso. They must leave the country within 72 hours.
Ouagadougou has taken a firm stance against European Union representatives, declaring two diplomats persona non grata. The decision requires them to depart Burkina Faso within three days.
diplomatic relations under pressure
Relations between Burkina Faso and the European Union have steadily deteriorated in recent weeks. The latest escalation follows the European Parliament’s adoption of a resolution on June 18, 2026, condemning alleged restrictions on civic space and fundamental freedoms in the country.
The resolution drew strong condemnation from Burkina Faso’s authorities. In response, Ouagadougou summoned the European Union’s ambassador, Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi, on June 22 to express its disapproval.
This move reflects growing frustration in Burkina Faso over external criticism of its governance and security policies. The declaration of the two diplomats as persona non grata signals a significant breakdown in diplomatic communication.
