Burkina Faso Decides to Extend General Mobilization Order for Counter-Terrorism

The government of Burkina Faso has extended its general mobilization order by one additional year to respond to national security threats. This decision was made at a cabinet meeting chaired by President Ibrahim Traoré on November 20.

Burkina Faso had previously declared a general mobilization order on December 5, 2024. This extension renews the existing order that was scheduled to expire in December 2025, taking effect from December 5, 2025.

Ongoing Terrorism Threat Underscores Need for Enhanced Security

The government of Burkina Faso has assessed that the current national security situation remains critical. The purpose of extending the general mobilization order is to protect citizens and property from terrorist threats and acts of terrorism and to continuously mobilize resources necessary for security restoration.

During the same cabinet meeting, the dissolution of the National Youth Council of Burkina Faso (CNJ-BF) was also approved. Established in November 2018, this organization served as a coalition of youth groups, playing a representative role in formulating and implementing youth policies.

Youth Council Dissolution: A Measure for Organizational Reform

The decision to dissolve the Youth Council stems from serious operational issues. The organization had effectively been paralyzed for over a year due to failure to renew its governing bodies, and it failed to improve despite multiple requests for corrective action from the relevant ministry.

The government plans to establish a new youth organization that is more inclusive and consensus-based following the dissolution. This aims to enhance the effectiveness of youth policies.

Economic Development Funding Also Discussed

Economic matters were also addressed at the same cabinet meeting. The government of Burkina Faso approved the ratification of a loan agreement signed with the West African Development Bank (BOAD) on September 18, 2025. This agreement is intended to finance development projects through the Burkina Faso Economic and Social Development Fund (FBDES).

A total of seven financial reports were adopted, demonstrating the government's commitment to pursuing economic development alongside security enhancement.