In Burkina Faso, the crucial role of journalists and rights defenders in the fight against terrorism is increasingly being noted. Military authorities recently gained the ability to requisition citizens to help defend the homeland. However, human rights organizations and unions say the mobilization specifically targets journalists and rights defenders, with the aim of silencing dissenting voices.
In their fight for freedom of expression and the protection of fundamental rights, journalists and rights defenders play an essential role in Burkinabe society. Their job consists of informing the population about events, denouncing abuses of power and raising awareness of injustices. However, this forced mobilization to “defend the homeland” endangers their independence and their ability to act impartially.
In recent years, Burkina Faso has seen an escalation of violence and terrorist attacks. Armed groups such as Ansarul Islam and the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (GSIM) have spread terror in the country, mainly targeting security forces and civilians. Faced with this threat, the authorities decided to strengthen security measures by mobilizing the population. However, this mobilization must not be to the detriment of the rights and freedoms of individuals.
Journalists and rights defenders have a crucial role to play in this fight against terrorism, by informing the public about the actions of armed groups, giving victims a voice and denouncing human rights violations. By asking them to put aside their usual work to devote themselves to the “defense of the homeland”, we deprive them of their ability to fulfill their mission and contribute to the construction of a fairer and more democratic society.
It is essential to preserve their independence and freedom of speech, so that they can continue to play their role as counter-power and inform the population in an objective and impartial manner. Journalists and rights defenders must be able to practice their profession in complete safety, without fear of reprisals or repression.
The fight against terrorism must not be used as a pretext to silence dissenting voices and limit freedom of expression. On the contrary, it is in these difficult times that it is even more important to defend democratic values and fundamental rights. Journalists and rights defenders play a crucial role in this fight, informing us, exposing abuses and reminding us of our responsibilities to our society.
It is therefore essential to support these civil society actors, to ensure their security and the exercise of their rights, so that they can continue to fully play their role in building a democratic and just Burkina Faso. Recognition of their work and their contribution to society is essential to strengthen democracy and guarantee a better future for all.