Burkina Faso’s transitional authorities have dissolved 118 civil society organizations, citing widespread non-compliance with a new legal framework governing associations.
The decision, announced on April 15 by the Ministry of Territorial Administration, declares the affected organizations dissolved for failing to meet the requirements of Law No. 011-2025, adopted in July 2025 to regulate freedom of association.
Government officials say the move is part of efforts to standardize and formalize the operations of civil society, urging affected groups to regularize their status under the new law and warning of further legal consequences for continued non-compliance.
The action comes amid a broader tightening of controls over civic and political space, with recent measures significantly reshaping the operating environment for both domestic and international organizations.
These steps include the dissolution of political parties earlier in 2026, new financial rules requiring non-governmental organizations to conduct transactions through a state-controlled banking system, and additional legal amendments affecting governance structures.
Authorities have framed the measures as part of a wider effort to rebuild the state, with priorities focused on national security, administrative coherence, and regulatory enforcement.
However, the developments have raised concerns among international observers, including the United Nations, which has warned about the shrinking space for civil society in the country.
UN officials have urged the authorities to reconsider restrictive measures and uphold international standards on freedom of association and expression, while also highlighting the potential impact on humanitarian operations.
Aid organizations have cautioned that increased regulatory constraints could hinder their ability to operate effectively, particularly in regions already facing security and humanitarian challenges.
Despite the criticism, the authorities continue to defend the measures as necessary to ensure accountability and alignment with national priorities during the transition period.
Analysts say the long-term impact will depend on whether affected groups can comply with the new legal framework and resume operations, as well as how the government balances regulation with the needs of civil and humanitarian actors.
