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Burkina Faso’s military government, which has been in power since a 2022 coup, has suspended nearly 250 local associations, furthering its crackdown on civil society organisations.
This brings the total number of groups closed or dissolved to over 900 since the junta began its latest clampdown in April 2026.
A government decree stated that 247 associations, operating in fields such as health, education, women’s rights, agriculture, the environment, culture, and sport, are now temporarily suspended. This move is part of the junta’s broader efforts to control civil society since it seized power.
The ruling military government, led by Ibrahim Traore, has imposed strict regulations on the activities of rights groups, unions, and opposition movements. A significant step in this crackdown was the signing of a law in July 2025 that limits the operations of rights organisations and syndicates, allowing the junta to target groups it deems a threat to its rule.
The recent decree states that during the suspension, only activities aimed at ensuring compliance with the law will be allowed. The junta has long accused international NGOs and charities receiving foreign donations of being involved in espionage or collaborating with insurgents, a charge that has been widely criticised by human rights groups.
In April, Human Rights Watch condemned the law, stating it provided the military government with the legal framework to further intensify its repression of civil society.
These actions signal a growing tension between the junta and groups advocating for human rights, freedom of assembly, and political opposition in the country.
