Burkina Faso: Security restrictions to remain in force across much of the country through at least mid-2021 /update 4

Event

The threat of militant attacks will likely persist in Burkina Faso 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, militant Islamist organizations, 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 2020.

As a result of the poor security environment, the existing state of emergency (SoE) and associated curfews in several regions of Burkina Faso will likely remain in force 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 during the indicated time frames:

• Est Region: 00:01-04:00 in the regional capital Fada N'Gourma; 22:00-04:00 in other areas. Measures remain in place through at May 29.

• North Region: 19:00-05:00 in Loroum.

• Sahel Region: 00:01-04:00 in Dori; 22:00-04:00 in Bani, Djibo, Sebba, Gorom-Gorom; 19:00-05:00 in Deou and Oursi; 22:00-05:00 in Sampelga, Falagountou, and Seytenga; 20:00-05:00 in other areas through at least April 14.

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, the 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 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 civilians have increased in recent months. Attacks have also spread to previously unaffected areas despite increased security operations by government forces. Insurgents 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.