Burkina Faso’s Tensions with France, Russia and Press Freedom: A Close Look.

In July 2023, the “interim” leader of Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, met with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in Saint Petersburg. This encounter took place amid growing tensions in the African country, particularly concerning freedom of the press.

Burkina Faso has been facing a security crisis since 2015, with jihadist groups and power struggles leading to the deaths of over 20,000 people and the displacement of more than 2 million Burkinabés. The country has experienced political instability, including two coups d’état in 2022, further exacerbating the situation.

Recently, the government of Burkina Faso suspended the radio stations of the British BBC and Voice of America for two weeks after they reported on an NGO Human Rights Watch (HRW) detailing mass executions carried out by the country’s army. The report stated that 223 civilians, including 56 children, were killed by the army in villages accused of collaborating with militants.

This move was seen as an attempt to suppress information and control the narrative surrounding alleged human rights abuses. The government also issued warnings to other press organizations against publishing information related to the HRW report. This incident highlighted concerns about freedom of expression and media censorship in Burkina Faso.

In response to the security crisis, Burkina Faso has distanced itself from its former colonial power France and sought military assistance from Russia. This shift in alliances has raised concerns about human rights abuses and potential violations of press freedom in the country. Recently, the government also expelled three French diplomats, accusing them of engaging in “subversive activities.”