Burkina Faso Confronts Organized Crime and Terrorism
Bordering Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo, Burkina Faso is a country grappling with the increasing prevalence of organized crime and terrorism. Despite efforts to address these issues, the country remains vulnerable to criminal networks and terrorist groups.
Cannabis Use Widespread in Ouagadougou and Beyond
While relatively limited, cannabis use is widespread in certain parts of the country. The drug is mainly consumed by unemployed youth and expats, with occasional sightings in:
- Ouagadougou
- Bobo Dioulasso
- Boromo
Terrorist Groups Active in Northern and Eastern Regions
Terrorist groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and Islamic State are active in the northern and eastern regions of Burkina Faso. These groups have been responsible for several attacks in:
- Ouagadougou
- Other areas
- Exploiting local criminal networks to smuggle contraband and engage in illegal activities.
Corruption Remains a Significant Challenge
Corruption is perceived to be high in Burkina Faso, with state actors involved in embezzlement and facilitation of drug trafficking. The government has taken steps to address corruption, but:
- Entrenched elites have hindered meaningful reforms
- State actors continue to engage in corrupt activities
Criminal Justice System Struggles to Keep Pace
The country’s criminal justice system faces significant challenges, including:
- Backlog of cases
- Lack of capacity for effective enforcement
- Extrajudicial killings by law enforcement
- No specialized unit dedicated to investigating organized crime
Economic Environment Complicates Anti-Crime Efforts
Burkina Faso’s large informal economy and state actor complicity hinder efforts to combat money laundering. The country lacks the capacity to effectively enforce anti-money-laundering laws, and:
- A significant portion of the economy is no longer under government control due to the jihadist insurgency
- Economic conditions are not conducive to effective anti-crime efforts
Civil Society Plays Critical Role in Combating Organized Crime
Despite challenges, Burkina Faso’s civil society remains robust, with numerous organizations working to prevent organized crime. However:
- There are concerns about the lack of community-driven prevention activities
- Inadequate support for victims of modern slavery
As Burkina Faso continues to grapple with these challenges, it is essential that the government works to strengthen its institutions, improve economic conditions, and enhance collaboration with civil society groups to combat organized crime and terrorism.