Burkina Faso
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
25 / 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
25
100
| PR Political Rights | 3 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 22 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
27
100
Not Free
A country or territory’s Freedom in the World status depends on its aggregate Political Rights score, on a scale of 0–40, and its aggregate Civil Liberties score, on a scale of 0–60.
See the methodology.
Overview
Two successive military coups in 2022 plunged Burkina Faso into political crisis, eliminating many of the significant political reforms that had been implemented after the 2014–15 transition from the rule of longtime President Blaise Compaoré. While civil society and organized labor remain strong forces for democracy, Burkinabè face continued insecurity and violence from armed extremist groups, militias, and government forces, causing widespread internal displacement. The stated goal of the military’s two illegal seizures of power was to address growing security and humanitarian crises, but insecurity has dramatically worsened since the takeovers. The ruling junta has acted unilaterally to entrench itself in power, postponing elections indefinitely and suppressing dissent.
Freedom in the World 2025 Policy Recommendations
Prioritize strengthening the rule of law and delivering economic dividends in the aftermath of political transitions
In countries where democratic forces have come to power after periods of antidemocratic rule, the new governments should pursue an agenda that protects and expands freedoms even as it delivers tangible economic and social benefits to citizens.
In countries emerging from war or the collapse of authoritarian regimes, focus on safety, reconciliation, reform
These countries must act swiftly to release all political prisoners, build or revitalize democratic institutions, reform police and other security forces, organize and hold competitive multiparty elections, and ensure accountability for past human rights violations.
Bolster checks and balances to mitigate the threat of democratic backsliding
In countries where there has been significant erosion of political rights and civil liberties, policymakers, legislators, jurists, civic activists, and donor communities should work to strengthen institutional guardrails and norms that serve to constrain elected leaders with antidemocratic or illiberal aims.
News and Updates
Featured
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
25
/ 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
