Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is a low-income, landlocked country in the Sahel region of West Africa, with an estimated population of 24.1 million (2025), a life expectancy of 61 years (2024), a GDP of US$23.12 billion, and a GDP per capita of approximately US$960 (2024). Trade plays a significant role in the economy, with exports accounting for 28.6% of GDP, imports for 31.9%, and total trade for 60.5% (2024). However, the economy remains highly dependent on agriculture and extractive industries and is vulnerable to insecurity, climate shocks, and commodity price fluctuations. Ranked 186th out of 193 countries on the 2025 Human Development Index, Burkina Faso faces considerable development challenges. The CIVICUS Monitor classifies the country’s civic space as “Repressed,” reflecting increasing restrictions on civil society, media, and fundamental freedoms. Recent concerns include the suspension of civil society organisations and media outlets, the detention and disappearance of journalists and religious leaders, restrictions on peaceful assembly, and the closure of the UN Human Rights Office, all of which highlight the country’s deteriorating governance and human rights environment. Sources: World Data, World Bank Data, CIVICUS Monitor.