Burkina Faso/Koudougou: Building the human rights skills of VDP trainers in the Boucle du Mouhoun region
A crucial stage in the training of trainers of Volunteers for the Defence of the Homeland (VDP) in the Boucle du Mouhoun took place on Monday 27 November 2023. The Brigade of the Volunteers for the Defence of the Homeland (BVDP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, organised an innovative session aimed at raising the awareness of trainers about human rights in the context of their anti-terrorist operations.
This was the 7th training session for VDP trainers. A session that has given them a particular insight into respect for human rights.
Lieutenant-Colonel Savadogo Thomas, commander of the National Brigade of Volunteers for the Defence of the Homeland, stressed the crucial opportunity offered by this session to strengthen the skills of the region’s personnel.
The VDP trainers, as key contact officers, are responsible for continuing the training, education and awareness-raising of the VDPs.
Lieutenant-colonel Savadogo therefore emphasised the need to strengthen their knowledge of human rights, so that the lessons can be passed on faithfully and effectively to the volunteers.
The mission of the VDPs is hailed as noble and perilous. The Lieutenant-Colonel stressed that the success of their actions of bravery and dedication depended on their being understood and appreciated by the people, while respecting the laws and regulations of Burkina Faso.
The Minister of Justice, Edasso Rodrigue Bayala, who was present at the ceremony, stated that the effectiveness of the fight against terrorism requires a reconciliation between military objectives and the imperative protection of human rights. The aim of the sessions, which are part of the concerted VDP training plan, is to prevent any violation of human rights.
UNICEF Burkina’s support for the BVDP in implementing these sessions underlines the importance attached to the issue of human rights, in particular child protection.
Bilal Sougou, UNICEF Child Protection Programme Manager, stressed the need to combine military objectives with human rights objectives.
The training session is part of the Burkinabe government’s determination, under the leadership of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, to consolidate the gains made in the fight against terrorism by fully integrating human rights.
This balance between military objectives and the protection of fundamental rights underlines a global approach to ensuring national security. The day ended with meetings with VDP officials in Réo.
VDPs were congratulated and encouraged for their commitment, and their grievances were listened to attentively.
This interaction underlines the importance of ongoing dialogue between managers and stakeholders in the field.
This initiative demonstrates Burkina Faso’s commitment, under the enlightened leadership of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, to ensuring robust national security while respecting human rights.
The training of trainers plays an essential role in building a competent, ethical and human rights-sensitive VDP force.
Maurice K. ZONGO
