Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called for an immediate investigation into the massacre of dozens of civilians in Burkina Faso's city of Solenzo on March 10 and 11. In a March 14 statement, HRW noted video footage circulating on social media that implicates pro-government militias in the killings, raising serious concerns about accountability and civilian protection in a country already grappling with widespread violence and human rights abuses. The victims, many of whom belonged to the Fulani ethnic group, were targeted in what appears to be a reprisal attack amid ongoing counterinsurgency operations.

The massacre underscores the deteriorating security situation in Burkina Faso, where pro-government militias, known as Volontaires pour la défense de la patrie (VDP), have been accused of committing grave human rights violations alongside state security forces. The Fulani community has frequently been stigmatized due to alleged ties to Islamist armed groups, making them vulnerable to such attacks. HRW has emphasized that these atrocities must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable to prevent further escalation of violence.

Burkina Faso has been engulfed in conflict since 2016, with Islamist armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State carrying out attacks against both civilians and state actors alike. The violence has displaced over 2.3 million people internally and externally as of August 2024. In response, the country's military junta, which seized power in a coup in October 2022, has intensified counterinsurgency efforts by mobilizing citizen militias like the VDP. While these groups are intended to bolster security forces, their operations have often led to extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and other abuses against civilians.

The junta’s approach has also contributed to shrinking civic space within the country. Journalists, activists, and opposition members have faced crackdowns under the guise of national security measures. In addition, the transitional government has delayed elections initially scheduled for July 2024 and announced plans to remain in power for five more years following nationwide talks largely boycotted by opposition groups.

International organizations have repeatedly urged Burkina Faso's authorities to uphold their commitments under international human rights law and ensure accountability for abuses committed by state actors and affiliated militias. Despite these calls, impunity remains pervasive.

From JURIST, March 16, 2025