UN human rights office to close in Burkina Faso by year-end
The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) announced this week that it would gradually wind down its operations in Burkina Faso by November 30, 2026.
The decision comes amid ongoing tensions with Burkina Faso’s government and follows the country’s recent move—alongside Mali and Niger—to initiate withdrawal from the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The OHCHR office had its activities suspended by national authorities three months prior, after it issued a press statement urging the protection of civic freedoms.
“I deeply regret the Burkinabé authorities’ decision to indefinitely suspend our operations in the country, and the fact that intensive discussions since then have failed to resolve the impasse,” stated UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk.
He emphasized that the suspension “has had a direct and significant impact” on the office’s ability to fulfill its mandate, prompting the phased withdrawal from Burkina Faso.
Ongoing commitment to human rights
Despite the closure, Mr. Türk assured that the OHCHR would continue supporting Burkina Faso’s government, national institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders to uphold human rights protection and promotion.
Established in October 2021, the OHCHR office in Ouagadougou monitored human rights developments, engaged in advocacy with authorities, and strengthened national capacities. Notably, nearly 4,000 defense and security personnel received training in international human rights and humanitarian law.
Concerns over ICC withdrawal
This announcement follows a statement by the Presidency of the Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute, expressing concern over Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger’s decision to exit the ICC.
The Presidency warned that the withdrawal could “undermine collective justice efforts” and “weaken global efforts to end impunity.” It stressed the ICC’s role as a cornerstone of international criminal justice, reliant on consistent state support.
While acknowledging the countries’ right to air grievances, the Presidency urged them to engage in constructive dialogue and reconsider their withdrawal. It also highlighted that exiting the Rome Statute does not absolve states of obligations incurred during their membership, while commending the trio’s past contributions to international justice.