Burkina Faso’s Dangerous New Tool: How ‘General Mobilization’ Silences Dissent
Over 30 journalists, activists, and opposition figures have been targeted for forced conscription in Burkina Faso since April 2023. While the recent release of Rasmané Zinaba and Bassirou Badjo, members of the civil society group Balai Citoyen, offers a glimmer of hope, it simultaneously underscores a chilling trend: the military junta is weaponizing national defense to suppress dissent, and this tactic could easily spread beyond Burkina Faso’s borders.
The Decree and Its Discontents
The root of the problem lies in a “general mobilization” decree issued in April 2023, ostensibly to combat the escalating Islamist insurgency. This sweeping law grants the president broad powers, including the authority to conscript citizens without due process. While governments have the right to mobilize their populations for defense, the manner in which Burkina Faso is implementing this decree is deeply concerning. It deviates sharply from international standards requiring notice, opportunity to contest, and defined terms of service. Instead, it’s become a tool for political repression.
From Criticism to Combat: A Pattern of Abuse
Zinaba and Badjo’s case is emblematic of this abuse. After publicly criticizing the junta, they were notified of their conscription in November 2023. Though a court ruled the orders illegal in December, they were arbitrarily detained in February 2024 and subsequently paraded on national television in military uniforms, forced to praise the regime. This isn’t simply about military service; it’s about public humiliation and silencing critical voices. The junta is effectively using forced conscription as a form of re-education, attempting to coerce loyalty through intimidation.
Beyond Zinaba and Badjo: The Wider Crackdown
The targeting extends far beyond Balai Citoyen. Prominent lawyer and founding member of the group, Guy Hervé Kama, remains detained on fabricated charges. Investigative journalist Serge Oulon is missing. These cases, alongside the dozens of others facing similar threats, paint a grim picture of a shrinking space for independent thought and expression in Burkina Faso. The situation is particularly alarming for those working in the media, as journalists are increasingly viewed as legitimate targets for repression.
The Risk of Regional Contagion
The concerning aspect of this situation is the potential for emulation. Across the Sahel region, we’re seeing a rise in military-led governments facing similar security challenges. The success – or perceived success – of Burkina Faso’s tactics could embolden other regimes to adopt similar measures, further eroding democratic norms and human rights. This is especially true in countries grappling with instability and extremist threats. A recent report by the Human Rights Watch details the escalating abuses and the lack of accountability within the Burkinabè security forces.
The Future of Dissent in Burkina Faso
The release of Zinaba and Badjo, while positive, shouldn’t be mistaken for a broader shift in policy. It’s likely a calculated move to deflect international criticism, rather than a genuine commitment to respecting human rights. The “general mobilization” decree remains in effect, and the junta has demonstrated a willingness to exploit it for political gain. The key question now is whether international pressure can compel the authorities to unconditionally release all arbitrarily detained individuals and dismantle this system of repression. Without sustained scrutiny and targeted sanctions, the silencing of dissent in Burkina Faso will likely continue – and potentially inspire similar crackdowns elsewhere.
What steps can the international community take to support independent voices in Burkina Faso and prevent the spread of this dangerous tactic? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
