Burkina Faso Faces Mounting Crisis as Promises of Reform Remain Unfulfilled
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – Three years after a military coup ousted Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, Burkina Faso is grappling with a deepening security and humanitarian crisis, despite initial pledges of swift reform and a return too constitutional order. A new report highlights a stark disconnect between promises made by the ruling junta and the lived realities of a population increasingly vulnerable to extremist violence, political repression, and economic hardship.
The November 27, 2025, report from Inter Press Service, published by Global issues, details how the transitional government, lead by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has struggled to deliver on key commitments to address the root causes of instability.while the junta initially vowed to prioritize security and restore democratic governance, progress has been hampered by escalating attacks from armed groups, a crackdown on dissent, and a stalled political transition.
The country remains in a state of emergency, with large swathes of territory outside government control. Attacks targeting civilians and security forces have surged,displacing over 2 million people – a figure that continues to climb. Humanitarian access is severely restricted, leaving millions in urgent need of food, water, and medical care.
Initial optimism following the 2022 coup,fueled by promises of a more effective response to the security crisis,has given way to widespread frustration. The junta’s focus on military solutions, coupled with a lack of inclusive dialog, has alienated segments of the population and exacerbated existing tensions. Concerns are also growing over restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, with reports of arbitrary arrests and intimidation of journalists and civil society activists.
The stalled political transition is another source of concern. While the junta has outlined a timeline for returning to constitutional rule,the process lacks transparency and inclusivity. Key decisions, such as the drafting of a new constitution, have been made without meaningful consultation with political parties and civil society organizations. This raises doubts about the junta’s genuine commitment to a democratic future.
