Burkina Faso : Tighter security measures, regulation of associations and control of the livestock trade

News reports in Burkina Faso have highlighted the suspension of 247 associations. The government is continuing its fight against the financing of terrorism. According to Jean-Pierre Vogna, Director-General of Territorial Administration, “it is these organisations, these associations, that have failed to implement all the necessary measures to comply with the law”. 

Between security and civil liberties: the controversy surrounding the dissolution of organisations

This operation follows an initial suspension and dissolution of organisations and associations that were not in compliance, according to the authorities. Now, nearly 1,000 organisations are banned from operating in the country, which has provoked strong reactions from human rights organisations, who see this as an infringement of freedom of association in the name of the fight against terrorism. Amnesty International describes the legislation as “abusive” and condemns it as a “flagrant violation of the right to freedom of association”. Similarly, the International Federation for Human Rights has condemned these restrictions on freedom in a press release. “A strong , and independent civil society acts as a safeguard against abuses of power and amplifies the voices of marginalised communities,” the statement reads.

Ban on livestock exports: Burkina Faso prioritises supplying the local market

On the eve of Eid al-Adha, the ban on exporting livestock to Burkina Faso came into force. The first trucks were stopped by the fraud control and enforcement brigade. A large-scale operation led to the seizure of around ten trucks that were due to travel to Côte d’Ivoire, according to the brigade. The authorities wish to ensure self-sufficiency for the population and avoid any shortages in the local market. This decision could have adverse consequences for certain traders who were transporting their livestock to neighbouring countries.