Burkina Faso
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
20 / 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
20
100
| PR Political Rights | 2 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 18 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
25
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, they have come under increasing pressure, and 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 2026 Policy Recommendations
Strengthen democratic coordination and collective action in a contested global order
Democratic resilience will increasingly depend on stronger coordination among countries that share a commitment to freedom, the rule of law, and accountable governance.
Reimagine international democracy assistance to help reverse the global decline in freedom
International support for democratic institutions, civil society, and independent media has been associated with modest but meaningful improvements in democratic governance, and it is far less costly than the military outlays necessitated by rising authoritarian aggression.
Prioritize engagement with younger generations in the digital spaces where civic identity is now formed
Young people are increasingly dissatisfied with democracy—not because they reject its principles, but because they see institutions failing to deliver on them. Programmatic work should create clear pathways for meaningful political participation, from voting and policy engagement to community organizing and public leadership, so that young people can translate their expectations into agency.
News and Updates
Featured
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
20
/ 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
