Burkina Faso: A new decree to step up the fight against terrorism and modernize migration management
During the Council of Ministers meeting on February 12, 2025, the Burkinabe government approved a decree outlining the implementation measures for the law of February 22, 2024, which regulates the entry and stay of foreigners, as well as the exit of both nationals and foreigners from Burkina Faso.
Presented by the Minister of Security, Mahamadou SANA, this decree aims to enhance the management of migration flows while aligning with international standards, regional norms, and modern advancements in comparative rights.
A key objective of this decree is to bolster the fight against terrorism and transnational threats.
By strictly regulating entry and stay on national territory, the decree provides a robust legal framework to identify and monitor individuals who may pose a security risk to the country.
Among its innovations is the introduction of electronic visas, a modern tool designed to streamline and secure the entry process for foreigners while simplifying administrative procedures.
Minister SANA emphasized that the decree aligns with decisions made within the AES Confederation (Alliance of Sahel States) while adhering to regional norms and international conventions ratified by Burkina Faso.
He also highlighted the principle of reciprocity, ensuring that the measures adopted are balanced and consistent with international practices.
By clarifying migration procedures, the decree strengthens the authorities’ ability to monitor cross-border movements, a critical aspect of counterterrorism efforts.
Armed groups often exploit weaknesses in migration systems to infiltrate fighters or transport resources.
With this new legal framework, Burkina Faso is equipping itself with a more effective mechanism to mitigate these risks.
This decree represents a significant step forward in modernizing migration management and securing the country’s territory.
It reflects the government’s commitment to addressing contemporary challenges by balancing security with the protection of rights, while also enhancing regional and international cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
Through this measure, Burkina Faso demonstrates its proactive approach to safeguarding its borders and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
Papa IBRAHIMA
