Burkina Faso rejects UN report on children in armed conflict, citing bias and lack of evidence
The Government of Burkina Faso has expressed profound dismay over a United Nations report addressing children and armed conflict in the country, denouncing it as biased, unsubstantiated, and developed without any consultation with national authorities.
In a strongly-worded response, the government criticized the report presented by the UN Resident Coordinator for equating the actions of Burkinabe defense and security forces with those of terrorist groups.
This approach, authorities stated, is both “irresponsible and insulting” to troops risking their lives to restore peace.
Officials highlighted the complete absence of tangible evidence in the report, noting it provides no official investigation documents, court rulings, or verifiable data to support its claims.
Instead, the government asserts the document relies on unverified rumors and narratives often promoted by NGOs of questionable credibility, some of which may be influenced by foreign agendas.
Burkina Faso condemned the publication as an unacceptable failure of due process, arguing it overlooks the state’s significant efforts to protect civilians, including children.
The government called on international institutions to act with greater responsibility, impartiality, and respect for national sovereignty, urging that future reports be grounded in reality rather than distant, air-conditioned offices.
Emile YEMPABE
