The government of Burkina Faso has strongly rejected a recent report by Human Rights Watch, calling its findings on human rights abuses “unfounded” and “misleading.”
In an official statement, government spokesperson Gilbert Ouédraogo described the report—covering the period from 2023 to 2025—as a “fabrication” based on what authorities claim are unreliable sources and flawed methodology. He accused the organization of being disconnected from realities on the ground and of spreading allegations aimed at discrediting the country’s armed forces.
The government insisted that its military operations, conducted in the context of an ongoing fight against terrorism, respect both national laws and international human rights commitments. Officials emphasized that security forces are engaged in protecting civilians and maintaining national stability.
Authorities also criticized what they described as attempts to portray Burkinabè forces as perpetrators of abuses, arguing that such narratives serve external interests and undermine the country’s sovereignty.
The response comes after the HRW report alleged that more than 1,800 civilians had been killed since 2023 by various actors, including government forces, allied militias, and armed groups linked to extremist organizations.
The exchange highlights growing tensions between the Burkinabè government and international human rights organizations, as the country continues to confront a prolonged security crisis.
Source: AA
