In Burkina Faso, authorities have taken action against a significant number of organizations. A total of 811 associations have been suspended due to the “non-renewal of their governing bodies,” while an additional 118 have been dissolved since mid-April. These measures were implemented under “existing legal provisions,” though no further details were provided regarding the specific statutes.
The organizations affected by these suspensions, effective from May 12, 2026, operate across various vital sectors, including health, education, women’s empowerment, gender equality initiatives, and religious activities. A ministerial order clarifies that during the period of suspension, only activities aimed at rectifying each association’s administrative status are permissible.
Intensified scrutiny and civil society concerns
In July 2025, Captain Ibrahim Traoré signed into law legislation that governs the freedom of association for various entities, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and trade unions. While this legal framework upholds the principle of freedom of association, it simultaneously imposes stringent requirements for declaration, administrative oversight, and adherence to legal standards. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including outright dissolution.
The stated aims of these regulations, according to the authorities, are to enhance transparency, establish a comprehensive registry of associations and NGOs, and combat illicit financial activities such as money laundering and the funding of “terrorism.”
International NGOs and associations relying on foreign funding frequently face accusations from the government, ranging from espionage to alleged collaboration with jihadist groups. In late April, Human Rights Watch, a prominent human rights organization, expressed concern that the new law effectively enables the ruling junta to “intensify its widespread suppression of civil society.”
