Burkina Faso Severs Diplomatic Relations with France

January 24, 2025 — Burkina Faso's military government has announced the immediate severance of diplomatic relations with France, citing allegations of "neo-colonial ambitions" and "ceaseless activism" by the former colonial power.

The decision was communicated in a statement read on national television by Communications Minister Pingdwendé Gilbert Ouédraogo.

Key Details

"The severance of ties exclusively concerns the institutional framework," the government stated, clarifying that historical, cultural, and social ties between the populations remain unaffected.

• The Burkinabe government accused France of supporting subversive networks and terrorist groups, though it did not provide evidence for these claims.
• French nationals in Burkina Faso remain protected under local law, though France's Foreign Ministry has urged them to exercise heightened vigilance.

Response from France

France's Foreign Ministry expressed regret over what it described as a "hostile and unfounded" decision, stating it reflects the "worrying drift" of Burkinabe authorities. The ministry indicated that reciprocal measures are under review.

Background

Political Context

• The military government, led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, has been in power since a coup in September 2022.
• The government has pursued policies critical of Western countries, particularly France, and has expelled French troops and diplomats.
• France has had no ambassador in Burkina Faso since January 2023. In 2024, the country expelled three French diplomats accused of "subversive activities," a claim France denied.
• In January 2025, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger formally withdrew from ECOWAS to form the Alliance of Sahel States.

Security Situation

• Burkina Faso has faced violence from armed groups, including JNIM and ISSP, affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, respectively.
• Human Rights Watch reported in April 2025 that the Burkinabe military committed war crimes and crimes against humanity, including what the organization described as ethnic cleansing of Fulani civilians.
• Analysts have stated that violence has worsened under the current military government.

Regional Implications

The decision marks a further decline in French influence in the Sahel region, as former colonies increasingly align with Russia and China.