Burkina Faso’s democratic regression: two years of unchecked repression
Two years after Burkina Faso’s military coup on 30 September 2022, the nation’s transition to constitutional order remains stalled. What began as a promise of reform has devolved into systematic suppression of civil liberties, with the transitional authorities systematically silencing dissent through arbitrary arrests, forced conscriptions, and violent crackdowns on critical voices.
Human rights defenders, journalists, and opposition figures face relentless persecution—kidnappings, disappearances, and extrajudicial threats have become daily realities. This oppressive environment is exacerbated by pro-regime activists who amplify hate speech and incitement to violence on digital platforms, creating a climate of fear that stifles public discourse.
Forced conscription as a tool of political repression
Since November 2023, Burkina Faso’s authorities have weaponized conscription laws to punish critics. The April 2023 “general mobilization” decree has been used to forcibly enroll human rights activists, journalists, and political opponents into military service as retaliation for their human rights advocacy. Notable victims include:
- Dr. Daouda Diallo – A prominent human rights defender and civil society leader
- Ablassé Ouédraogo – Veteran politician and former government official
Even members of the judiciary have not been spared. In August 2024, at least five magistrates—including prosecutors—were forcibly conscripted after making rulings unfavorable to regime allies. These actions violate Burkina Faso’s constitutional separation of powers and international human rights obligations.
Erosion of press freedom and targeted attacks on journalists
Independent journalism in Burkina Faso is under siege. Media outlets critical of the regime face suspensions, while journalists are coerced into adopting a “patriotic” narrative. High-profile cases include:
- Atiana Serge Oulon – Investigative journalist and editor of *L’Événement*, abducted from his home by state intelligence agents on 24 June 2024. His newspaper was suspended days earlier.
- Kalifara Séré and Adama Bayala – Broadcasters for *BF1*, forcibly disappeared after the cancellation of their show *”7 Infos”*.
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has condemned these disappearances as grave threats to press freedom and bodily integrity.
Violence against dissenting families in exile
Family members of former officials have also become targets. Between 11–16 September 2024, two relatives of Djibril Bassolé—former Foreign Minister under Blaise Compaoré—were violently abducted in Ouagadougou. These acts are directly linked to pro-regime activists’ calls for violence against perceived opponents.
International condemnation and calls for accountability
Human rights organizations, including the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), have repeatedly condemned Burkina Faso’s violations:
“Silencing civil society and repressing human rights defenders, journalists, and opposition figures is unacceptable—especially during a transition period that claims to prioritize state rebuilding and good governance.”
“The forced conscription of magistrates in retaliation for judicial decisions contradicts Burkina Faso’s own Constitution and African human rights treaties.”
“We urge the African Union and UN to coordinate urgent action to halt this violence, secure the release of abducted individuals, and ensure their protection.”
The FIDH demands the immediate cessation of attacks, the release of arbitrarily detained persons, and the restoration of Burkina Faso’s human rights commitments at national, regional, and international levels.
For more details on Burkina Faso’s escalating crisis, visit the FIDH website.
