Burkina Faso: The Islamic Federation launches counter-hate speech initiative
In a bold move against growing social divisions, the Federation of Islamic Associations of Burkina Faso (FAIB) presented the government with an alternative discourse framework on July 7, 2025. Led by President Imam Aboubacar Yugo, the initiative seeks to reclaim Islam’s core values of peace, tolerance, and national unity amid rising extremist rhetoric.
The comprehensive document, drawing from Quranic verses and authentic Hadiths, systematically counters hate speech by emphasizing Islam’s teachings on brotherhood, justice, and sanctity of life.
“Islam is being weaponized to divide when its essence promotes universal peace,” Imam Yugo stated during the handover ceremony, addressing both Muslim and non-Muslim citizens.
Beyond theological arguments, the FAIB’s project outlines practical measures:
- Training religious leaders in constructive messaging
- Monitoring inflammatory content across media platforms
- Establishing interfaith dialogue forums
The federation particularly targets social media’s role in amplifying divisions, urging worshippers to reject all violent rhetoric.
This comes as Burkina Faso faces mounting security challenges that risk exacerbating communal tensions.
Civil society groups have welcomed the initiative as timely. “When religious institutions lead peacebuilding, it resonates deeply,” noted a Ouagadougou-based human rights activist.
The FAIB plans nationwide workshops to operationalize the framework, positioning Islamic leaders as key players in preserving social cohesion.
Olivier TOE
