Burkina Faso: Security restrictions to remain across much of the country through at least mid-2021 /update 3

Event

The threat of militant attacks in Burkina Faso will likely continue through at least mid-2021 as armed groups continue to operate in the northern and eastern areas of the country. Insurgents have repeatedly targeted schools, government offices, and security checkpoints. Moreover, Islamist groups, including Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and Ansar-ul Islam, are attempting to stoke conflict between religious groups by targeting churches in rural areas; several such incidents occurred in 2019.

As a result of the poor security environment, a State of Emergency (SoE) and associated curfews remain in place in several regions of Burkina Faso, as of Jan. 18. The measures will likely continue through at least mid-2021. Affected regions include Hauts-Bassins, Boucle du Mouhoun, Cascades, North, Sahel, and Centre-Est.

Curfews are also in place in the following locations for the time frames noted below:

• Est Region: 0000-0400 in the regional capital Fada N'Gourma; 2200-0400 in other areas. Measures remain in place through at Jan. 29.

• North Region: 1900-0500 in Loroum.

• Sahel Region: 0000-0400 in Dori; 2200-0400 in Bani, Djibo, Sebba, Gorom-Gorom; 1900-0500 in Deou and Oursi; 2100-0500 in Sampelga, Falagountou, and Seytenga; 2000-0500 in other areas through at least Feb. 28.

Under the SoE, security forces have increased powers, including the ability to conduct searches without warrants. Authorities may impose further curfews and other restrictions on movement or public assembly. Military and police forces could use their expanded powers to intensify counterinsurgency operations in the affected regions, likely increasing the number of clashes between militants and government forces.

Context

In recent years, JNIM and Ansar-ul Islam have emerged as the main nonstate armed groups in Burkina Faso. Both groups have claimed responsibility for recent attacks in the country's north and east, as well as attacks in the capital, Ouagadougou. Burkina Faso's porous borders with Mali and Niger and the limited capabilities of its security forces mean that further attacks are likely in areas affected by the state of emergency.

Militants typically attack security facilities and patrols in remote locations near the borders, though attacks on the civilian populations have increased in recent months. Attacks on civilian and security targets have spread to previously unaffected areas despite increased security operations by government forces. Militant groups have repeatedly targeted schools, religious sites, government offices, and security checkpoints. There are growing concerns that militant groups may continue targeting churches.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to affected regions in the north and east until the situation stabilizes. If travel is unavoidable, exercise a high degree of caution in affected areas and heed the instructions of authorities. Maintain a very low profile, restrict nighttime movements, vary routines, and move in guarded convoys if operating in affected regions. Minimize exposure to potential targets, including places of worship, security installations, markets, and other crowded locations. Carry proper identification and travel documents at all times. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.