Burkina Faso
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
27 / 100
Not Free
Two separate coups organized by the military in 2022 plunged Burkina Faso into political crisis, eliminating many of the significant political reforms implemented after the 2014–15 political transition. While civil society and organized labor remain strong forces for democracy, Burkinabè face continued insecurity and violence from armed militant groups, militias, and government forces, causing widespread internal displacement.
Research & Recommendations
Burkina Faso
Not Free
27
100
| PR Political Rights | 3 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 24 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
30
100
Not Free
Global freedom statuses are calculated on a weighted scale.
See the methodology.
Overview
Two separate coups organized by the military in 2022 plunged Burkina Faso into political crisis, eliminating many of the significant political reforms implemented after the 2014–15 political transition. While civil society and organized labor remain strong forces for democracy, Burkinabè face continued insecurity and violence from armed militant groups, militias, and government forces, causing widespread internal displacement. Though the military’s justification for its two illegal seizures of power was to address growing security and humanitarian crises, insecurity has dramatically worsened following the takeovers. The junta has also acted unilaterally to entrench itself in power, postponing elections indefinitely.
Freedom in the World 2024 Policy Recommendations
Provide steady support and flexible funding to those on the front lines of the struggle against tyranny.
Democratic governments and donors must increase and sustain support for those working to defend and promote fundamental freedoms around the world. Failure to do so emboldens autocrats and can result in the loss of hard-won progress.
Uphold the rights of people living in disputed territories.
The events of the past year in places such as Nagorno-Karabakh and the Gaza Strip provided stark evidence that populations without self-determination are at greater risk of extreme human rights abuses or atrocities.
Protect free and fair elections in 2024.
At least 40 countries are holding national-level elections in 2024, and many more will conduct other types of balloting. Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of any democracy, and independent and transparent electoral processes are necessary to foster genuine competition and public trust.
News and Updates
Featured
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Global Freedom Score
27
/ 100
Not Free
Population: 22,670,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Past Election
Date of Election
November 22, 2020
Type of Election
General
Internet Penetration
17.50%
Election Year
2020
Vulnerability Index
65
/ 100
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked