Burkina Faso: Protests likely in Ouagadougou through at least late August amid heightened levels of anti-French sentiment

Event

Protests are likely in Ouagadougou through at least late August amid prevailing heightened levels of anti-French sentiment in the country. The Mouvement M30 Naaba Wobgo has called for demonstrations every Friday until authorities satisfy their demands, including the departure of the French Ambassador to Burkina Faso from the country and the termination of Burkina Faso's various military-related and economic agreements with France; the group notably held related protests in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso Aug. 12.

The US Embassy in Burkina Faso accordingly issued a demonstration alert Aug. 18, warning that protests are likely to take place at the French Embassy in Ouagadougou Aug. 19. Demonstrations may also take place at Burkinabe governmental buildings, in public squares, and on major thoroughfares in the capital and other major cities across the country. Burkinabe authorities had not issued permits for any such protest activity as of Aug. 18.

Security forces will likely deploy to all related demonstrations. Localized transport and business disruptions will probably affect areas subject to protest activity. Clashes between protesters and security forces, or between rival groups of demonstrators, cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations. Monitor local media for protest updates. Plan for transport and business disruptions in areas subject to protest activity. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Abide by all official directives.