The humanitarian emergency in Burkina Faso raises major concerns within the international community. According to the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric, the country is facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, with 6.3 million people in urgent need of humanitarian support and protection. This alarming situation requires an immediate and concerted response from Member States and humanitarian agencies.
The figures speak for themselves: of the 3.8 million people targeted for assistance, only 730,000 have been assisted so far. Although these efforts represent a good start, they only cover 19% of the total number of people in need of assistance. In addition, the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan, amounting to $935 million, was only 17% funded, or approximately $157 million. This under-financialization jeopardizes the ability of humanitarian organizations to respond adequately to the ongoing crisis.
In addition, humanitarian access is hampered by the presence of armed terrorist groups in many localities in the country, making the situation even more complex. In a region already facing problems linked to drought, this humanitarian crisis takes on an even more critical dimension.
It is urgent that the international community mobilize to support Burkina Faso in this period of crisis. Partnerships between governments, humanitarian organizations and local actors are essential to provide lifesaving assistance to the most vulnerable populations. It is imperative to bridge the gap between growing humanitarian needs and the limited resources currently available.
Faced with this alarming situation, it is crucial that Member States respond to the appeal launched by the UN and provide the necessary funding to support humanitarian efforts in Burkina Faso. Only collective and coordinated action will make it possible to adequately respond to the urgent needs of the millions of people affected by this crisis.