In recent months, Burkina Faso has come under scrutiny for its controversial use of conscription as a means to punish critics of the military rulers. The practice involves forcibly enlisting individuals, regardless of their will or suitability, into the Volunteers for the Defence of the Homeland (VDP), a group tasked with combating jihadist groups operating in the country. This article explores the impact of conscription on the targeted individuals and their families, as well as the wider implications for freedom of speech and dissent in Burkina Faso.
One of the most prominent cases is that of Dr Arouna Louré, an anaesthetist who was abruptly taken from his hospital and sent to a military training camp hundreds of miles away. Dr Louré believes that his vocal criticism of the military rulers on social media played a significant role in his conscription. Similar cases have been reported, including the forced enlistment of activists, journalists, and opposition leaders, raising concerns about the government’s use of conscription as a tool to silence dissent.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) and other rights groups have condemned the junta’s actions, highlighting the abuse of power and the infringement on individual freedoms. HRW researchers argue that while the war against jihadist groups is necessary, responding to abuse with abuse is not a sustainable or just solution. The junta, on the other hand, claims that conscription is essential for national security and that individual freedoms must not supersede the collective interest.
Conscription has not only caused emotional distress to the affected individuals but has also disrupted their lives and those of their families. Many individuals targeted for conscription have chosen to flee the country, fearing for their safety and the potential backlash they may face. Families have been torn apart, and individuals have been forced to abandon their careers and livelihoods to avoid conscription. This has created a sense of fear and uncertainty among the population, stifling freedom of expression and creating a culture of self-censorship.
The junta’s decision to pivot towards Russia and sever ties with former colonial power France has added another layer of complexity to the situation. The expulsion of French diplomats and the closure of France’s military base in Burkina Faso have strained relationships between the two countries. Russia, on the other hand, has taken advantage of this situation by bolstering its presence in Burkina Faso and offering military support. Reports suggest that Russian troops have already arrived in the country, further fueling tensions and raising concerns about foreign influence.
The conscription of individuals like Dr Louré into the VDP has also raised questions about their suitability and training for combat situations. Dr Louré, an anaesthetist with no prior military experience, was deployed to dangerous regions without proper combat training. This not only puts the conscripts’ lives at risk but also undermines the effectiveness of the VDP in countering jihadist groups. Critics argue that individuals like Dr Louré would be better utilized in their respective professions, providing much-needed medical assistance in hospitals rather than risking their lives on the front lines.
Despite the challenges and abuses associated with conscription, individuals like Dr Louré remain hopeful for Burkina Faso’s future. They believe that the current crisis can serve as an opportunity to address underlying issues such as corruption, illicit enrichment, and nepotism within the government. Through open dialogue and a unified effort, they hope that Burkina Faso can overcome its challenges and emerge stronger as a nation.
The international community and human rights organizations have an important role to play in addressing the issue of conscription in Burkina Faso. By raising awareness, advocating for the protection of individual freedoms, and pressuring the junta to respect human rights, they can contribute to a more just and inclusive society. The plight of individuals like Dr Louré and the larger issue of conscription must not go unnoticed or unchallenged, as they have far-reaching implications for the future of Burkina Faso.
