Three jihadist assaults in northern Burkina Faso since May have resulted in about 50 civilian deaths, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW).
The non-governmental organization released a new report on Monday attributing the violence to al-Qaeda-linked Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wa al-Muslimeen (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Sahel province (IS Sahel). These groups continue to pose severe threats in the region.
Details of the Attacks
HRW detailed that JNIM carried out strikes on the town of Djibo in May and the village of Youba in early August. These actions claimed the lives of 40 civilians in total.
In a separate incident in July, IS Sahel targeted a humanitarian aid convoy heading to the besieged town of Gorom Gorom, resulting in at least nine civilian fatalities. Such events underscore the ongoing insecurity in northern areas.
Violations of International Law
The organization stated that these attacks breach international humanitarian law and constitute apparent war crimes. HRW emphasized the need for accountability to protect non-combatants amid the conflict.
Military Rule and Security Challenges
Burkina Faso has been under military junta control for nearly three years. Led by Ibrahim Traoré, the leadership promised to eradicate violence and enhance security. Despite these commitments, frequent deadly incidents persist, challenging the government’s efforts.
HRW’s Outreach and Expert Commentary
HRW shared its findings with Burkina Faso’s justice and defense ministers on August 21 but received no reply. Ilaria Allegrozzi, a senior Sahel researcher at HRW, commented,
“Islamist armed groups in Burkina Faso have committed repeated atrocities against civilians since 2016.”
She called for improved civilian protection, investigations into abuses—including those by the military and allied militias—and fair prosecutions.
Broader Accusations Against Forces
Beyond jihadist groups, HRW has accused the military of civilian targeting. In March, the NGO reported that government forces killed at least 100 civilians in the west.
HRW also pressed the African Union to urge Burkina Faso to address these recurring violations effectively.
African Countries Offering Direct Flights to the United States
