The military-led government of Burkina Faso has revoked the licences of four international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and suspended the operations of two others for three months, according to official decrees obtained by AFP and reported by Business Insider Africa. The decrees, issued in mid-June, cited formal legal breaches as the basis for the government’s actions, though specifics were not disclosed. Notably, one of the suspended organisations is reportedly being investigated for data-related violations.
These developments come as part of a broader trend of heightened control by Burkina Faso’s military regime, which came to power through a coup in September 2022. The junta, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has consistently framed its actions as necessary to reclaim national sovereignty and strengthen internal security in the face of ongoing jihadist insurgencies.
However, critics argue that the regime’s approach has increasingly infringed on civil liberties. According to Business Insider Africa, there have been reports of escalating censorship, targeted arrests, and the suppression of dissent particularly among civil society organisations and independent media.
The West African nation continues to grapple with widespread violence linked to extremist groups that initially emerged from neighbouring Mali and Niger. Despite promises to restore order, the government’s aggressive stance has prompted concern over the erosion of democratic freedoms and the country’s long-term political stability.
In recent months, several diplomats have been expelled for allegedly engaging in “subversive” activities, and multiple foreign news outlets have been forced to cease operations.
While the junta insists its measures are essential for national security, international observers and human rights advocates warn that such repression risks further isolating Burkina Faso and undermining efforts to achieve lasting peace and good governance.
