Ouagadougou: The Burkinabe government has firmly rejected a recent report by Human Rights Watch on the human rights situation in Burkina Faso, labeling it as 'false' and consisting of 'unfounded allegations.' The government has also announced its intention to take strong measures against entities it views as imperialist NGOs seeking to undermine Burkina Faso's sovereignty.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the government expressed its disapproval of the report, which was published on April 2, 2026. The report, purportedly covering the period from 2023 to 2025, was described by the government as a concoction of conjectures and serious allegations, which it claims are customary of Human Rights Watch practices.

The government criticized the NGO for being disconnected from the realities on the ground, noting that it has no office or representation in Burkina Faso. It accused Human Rights Watch of relying on information from select individuals who allegedly receive subsidies in exchange for providing material to support what the government termed as imaginary narratives.

The response from Burkina Faso's government described the report as part of a broader strategy by neo-colonial and imperialist forces to demonize Burkinabe patriots and its defense forces. It claimed these forces intend to tarnish the image of the country in the eyes of international opinion, suggesting that they are responsible for the heinous crimes attributed to Burkinabe forces.

The government maintained that its fighters operate with professionalism and their commitment is rooted in the preservation of life and protection of human rights. It reiterated its dedication to combating terrorism, emphasizing that this fight remains a national priority conducted in compliance with national and international laws regarding human rights.

Burkina Faso's government declared its determination to continue its journey towards building a future of dignity and freedom, aligned with the aspirations of its people. It reaffirmed its resolve to combat both armed violence and what it described as 'paper crimes' like the Human Rights Watch report.

The government concluded by asserting its right to take firm measures against organizations it considers imperialist, which it believes are attempting to thwart Burkina Faso's sovereignist movement.