Burkinabe army abuses may undermine mobilisation aims

Significance

Government efforts to combat jihadist insurgents that contest control of half the country have stalled, despite increased army and militia recruitment and the imposition of wide-ranging emergency powers. Politics is suffering too, as the government makes more aggressive efforts to silence critics.

Impacts

• Army abuses will enable jihadists to pose as protectors of local villagers, and thus enhance their recruitment prospects.
• Insecurity-related mine closures will considerably reduce gold earnings and may slow economic growth.
• Widespread attacks and political tensions may jeopardise the timetable for returning to civilian rule by July 2024.