Burkina Faso’s military government has intensified its crackdown on civil society organisations, announcing the suspension of 247 additional associations.
The latest action brings the total number of organisations dissolved or suspended by the ruling junta to more than 900 since last month.
According to a ministerial decree issued on Tuesday, the affected groups include Burkina-based organisations working in health, education, women’s rights, agriculture, environmental protection, culture and sports.
The military authorities stated that during the suspension period, the organisations would only be permitted to carry out activities aimed at ensuring compliance with the law.
In July 2025, junta leader Ibrahim Traore signed legislation tightening restrictions on the activities of rights groups and trade unions.
The junta has repeatedly accused international NGOs and charities receiving foreign funding of espionage and collaboration with jihadist groups battling government forces.
Rights organisations have strongly criticised the latest measures.
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch both expressed concern that the crackdown further limits civic freedoms and increases government control over civil society.
Amnesty International last month described the dissolution of associations as inconsistent with Burkina Faso’s constitution, arguing that it violates protections guaranteeing freedom of association and union activities.
The latest crackdown comes only weeks after the military government dissolved all political parties in the country, further consolidating power under the junta.
Burkina Faso has been under military rule since a series of coups amid worsening insecurity linked to armed jihadist groups operating across the Sahel region.
