EU diplomats declared persona non grata in Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso’s Diplomatic Rift with the EU Intensifies

Burkina Faso has declared two European Union diplomats persona non grata, giving them just 72 hours to leave the country. The move comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between Ouagadougou and Brussels.

Key Figures and Immediate Impact

The affected diplomats include the deputy head of the EU delegation and the program manager for the EU delegation in Burkina Faso. Their expulsion follows a recent EU parliamentary resolution criticizing Burkina Faso’s handling of civic space and fundamental freedoms.

Context of Rising Tensions

Relations between Burkina Faso and the EU have deteriorated significantly since the European Parliament adopted a resolution on June 18, 2026, titled “Ongoing Repression of Civic Space and Fundamental Freedoms in Burkina Faso.” The resolution triggered strong reactions from Burkinabè authorities, who summoned the EU delegation head in Burkina Faso on June 22 to express their disapproval.