Burkina Faso: Indefinite police strike launched October 25

Event

Police in Ouagadougou launched an indefinite strike on Wednesday, October 25, to demand better working conditions and higher salaries. Reports say many public administrative services have been reduced, as well as the number of police patrols and checkpoints. The secretary general of the national police union assured the public, however, that all strategic posts for national security will not be abandoned during the strike. It is unclear when services and patrols are expected to return to normal.

Context

Police unions presented the government with their demands in October 2016, but many have not yet been met.

Advice

Due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to be discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. A number of Western governments advise against all travel to areas within 50 km (30 mi) of the Malian border above the Dori-Niangoloko line. Nonessential travel to the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso and border regions of Tapoa province is also advised against due to unstable security conditions along the borders.