The UN’s top human rights official, Volker Türk, has urged the government of Burkina Faso to lift all restrictions on civic space and reconsider its plan to outlaw political parties entirely.
« This is not a step in the right direction for the human rights of the people of Burkina Faso, » warned the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in a press statement.
« Rather than banning political parties and imprisoning individuals for expressing their views, Burkinabè authorities should open civic space, including for humanitarian actors, uphold freedom of association and expression, and lift bans on political party activities in line with their international obligations and commitments, » he emphasized.
Moves to dissolve political parties
Burkina Faso’s government announced on 29 January 2026 measures to dissolve political parties and repeal the legal framework governing them. Authorities had already suspended all political party activities since September 2022, as confirmed by the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR).
Throughout 2025, Burkinabè authorities suspended the activities of several national and international organizations, either without explanation or under vague pretexts such as unauthorized data collection or alleged threats to « public order and security. » Last July, they enacted a restrictive law on freedom of association, and since 11 November 2025, a decree has required NGOs and associations to exclusively open and manage their bank accounts with a state-owned bank.
The combined effect of these suspensions and decisions has severely restricted civil society activity in the country, violating international human rights law. These measures are also implemented without mitigation support, further hindering humanitarian operations and access to populations in need.
While authorities released several arbitrarily detained individuals last year, the OHCHR continues to receive reports of enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests in Burkina Faso. Victims include journalists, judicial officials, political leaders, and members of civil society organizations.
Government’s commitment to human rights
In a roadmap agreed between the OHCHR and Burkina Faso’s government in December 2025, authorities pledged to end impunity, respect human rights in security and military operations, assist victims, uphold fundamental freedoms, and strengthen national mechanisms for human rights protection and torture prevention.
« These commitments are important and must urgently translate into concrete actions, » stated Volker Türk. « Authorities must repeal restrictive laws, enable rapid and unhindered humanitarian aid delivery across the country, and unconditionally release arbitrarily detained individuals. Accountability for human rights violations is imperative. »
« A genuine civic and democratic space, allowing pluralistic expression from political parties and organizations, alongside a strengthened rule of law, is essential for sustainable peace, security, and social cohesion in Burkina Faso, » he concluded.
