Burkina Faso: Authorities impose state of emergency in 22 provinces from March 30

Event

A state of emergency (SoE) will enter into effect in 22 of Burkina Faso's 45 provinces starting at 00:01 March 30 due to ongoing insecurity from terrorism. The directive, which is slated to be in effect for 30 days, will enable the government to tighten security as part of the nation's counterterrorism efforts. The SoE will be in force in the following locations:

• Boucle du Mouhoun Region: Banwa, Kossi, Nayala, and Sourou Provinces;

• Cascades Region: Comoe Province;

• Center North Region: Bam, Namentenga, and Sanmatenga Provinces;

• Center-East Region: Koulpelogo Province;

• East Region: Gnagna, Gourma, Komondjari, Kompienga, and Tapoa Provinces;

• Hauts-Bassins Region: Kenedougou and Tuy Provinces;

• North Region: Lorum and Yatenga Provinces;

• Sahel Region: Oudalan, Seno, Soum, and Yagha Provinces.

Although it is currently scheduled to expire on April 30, authorities could extend the state of emergency if the situation warrants. Authorities may impose other restrictions on movement and public assembly, including curfews. Military and police forces will almost certainly maintain an increased presence in the affected provinces; clashes between militants and government forces are likely. Transport and business disruptions are possible.

Context

In recent years, Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and Ansaroul Islam have emerged as the main non-state armed groups in Burkina Faso. Both groups have claimed responsibility for attacks in several locations, as well as attacks in Ouagadougou. Burkina Faso's porous borders with Mali and Niger and the limited capabilities of its security forces suggest that further attacks are likely.

Militants typically attack security facilities and patrols in remote locations near the borders, though attacks on civilians have increased. Attacks have also spread to previously unaffected areas despite increased security operations by government forces. Militant groups have repeatedly targeted vital infrastructure, schools, religious sites, government offices, and security checkpoints.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of caution in the affected locations and heed authorities' instructions. Maintain a very low profile, restrict nighttime movements, vary routines, and move in guarded convoys. 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.