Uncovering Human Rights Violations: Burkina Faso Armed Forces Under Scrutiny for Unlawful Killings and 'Disappearances

Burkina Faso Armed Forces Accused of Unlawful Killings and 'Disappearances': Human Rights Watch Report

"Discover shocking findings in the Human Rights Watch report on Burkina Faso's Armed Forces. Accusations of unlawful killings and disappearances raise concerns about human rights violations. Stay informed about the latest developments and actions taken. #BurkinaFaso #HumanRights #UnlawfulKillings"

ARAC International is committed to promoting human rights and accountability in conflict-affected regions. In line with this mission, we are sharing key findings and insights from a recent report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) that sheds light on the concerning situation in Burkina Faso. The report reveals disturbing allegations of unlawful killings and enforced disappearances by the country's armed forces, which are exacerbating tensions and fueling recruitment for armed groups.

According to HRW, at least nine men were summarily executed, while another 18 individuals were forcibly disappeared and likely killed in three incidents since February 2023 in Séno province. These actions by the Burkina Faso army are not only grave violations of international humanitarian law but also contribute to growing resentment among affected populations. This resentment, in turn, strengthens the recruitment efforts of armed groups operating in the region.

The conflict in Burkina Faso stems from the presence of Islamist armed groups associated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara, which infiltrated the country from Mali in 2016. Since 2021, the armed conflict has claimed the lives of nearly 7,900 people and displaced over 2 million individuals from their homes. In response, Burkina Faso's transitional military authorities announced a "general mobilization" in April 2023 to reclaim lost territory. However, HRW's report suggests that the actions of the armed forces must be tempered with respect for civilian lives, human rights, and accountability for abuses.

HRW conducted thorough investigations from February to May, interviewing 30 individuals with direct knowledge of the incidents. This included witnesses, family members of victims, representatives from civil society organizations, and international organizations. Despite sharing their findings and posing specific questions to the Burkinabè justice and defense ministers in a letter dated June 14, HRW did not receive a response.

One of the most shocking incidents detailed in the report occurred on April 20, when soldiers allegedly carried out a massacre in Karma village, Yatenga province, resulting in the deaths of at least 156 civilians, including women and children. Such atrocities serve as a stark reminder of the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for action.

It is important to note that all the victims of the documented incidents were men from the Fulani ethnic group, also known as the Peul. The Islamist armed groups operating in Burkina Faso have specifically targeted Fulani communities, capitalizing on local grievances related to poverty and corruption.

To address the escalating crisis, Burkina Faso's transitional authorities launched a recruitment campaign called "Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland" in October 2022, aiming to enlist 50,000 individuals to support counterinsurgency operations. These volunteers receive limited training on the rules of engagement, discipline, and respect for human rights. However, it is crucial that the authorities ensure the full implementation of a new law passed on February 16, which strengthens the role of provost marshals responsible for discipline in the armed forces. This law aims to protect detainees' rights during military operations and at military camps, providing an opportunity to prevent further abuses.

The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, present in Burkina Faso since December 2019, must fulfill its mandate to monitor and report on human rights violations while providing technical and advisory support to the Burkinabè government. Moreover, it is imperative that the transitional authorities seek assistance from the UN human rights office to hold accountable those responsible for serious abuses, ensuring justice for victims and their families.

The gravity of the situation in Burkina Faso demands urgent attention and collaborative efforts from the international community, regional organizations, and the Burkinabè government to address the root causes of the conflict, protect civilians, and promote respect for human rights. By holding those responsible for abuses accountable, steps can be taken towards achieving a sustainable peace and preventing further suffering in the region.

Sources:

- ReliefWeb

- Human Rights Watch