Burkina Faso’s military-led government has revoked the operating licenses of four foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and suspended two others, as part of a broader effort to assert national sovereignty and tighten control over civil society activities.
The decrees, dated mid-June and seen by AFP, cited “formality breaches” as the official reason for the expulsion of the four NGOs. The two suspended associations face a three-month operational ban, with one reportedly under investigation for data breaches.
This move comes amid growing concerns over shrinking civic space in Burkina Faso, where the ruling junta, which seized power in a coup in September 2022, has taken an increasingly hardline stance against perceived foreign interference. Since taking control, the military government has prioritized the restoration of “national sovereignty,” often invoking security threats as justification for suppressing dissent.
Observers note a rising trend of kidnappings, extrajudicial arrests, and arbitrary detentions targeting civilians critical of the regime. In recent months, diplomats accused of “subversive” activities have been expelled, and several foreign media outlets have been shut down, further isolating the country from international scrutiny.
The junta argues that these actions are necessary to combat the jihadist insurgency that has plagued the country for over a decade. Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, has faced relentless attacks from extremist groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. The violence has displaced millions, claimed thousands of lives, and eroded trust in state institutions.
However, rights groups and international observers warn that the government’s crackdown on NGOs and civil society could worsen the humanitarian crisis. Foreign NGOs often play a crucial role in delivering aid, healthcare, and education in conflict-affected regions of Burkina Faso.
As the country grapples with spiraling insecurity and economic hardship, the suspension and expulsion of these organizations raise fears of deteriorating conditions for vulnerable populations. Analysts suggest the move may signal further authoritarian entrenchment by the junta, which continues to resist calls for a return to civilian rule.
The international community remains watchful, as the implications of these decisions reverberate across the Sahel and beyond.
