In a resolution adopted by a show of hands on Thursday 20 October, following a debate on 4 October (see EUROPE 13036/11), the European Parliament condemns the military coup in Burkina Faso, the second after the coup on 24 January, and calls for an urgent return to constitutional order.
In particular, the European Parliament calls for “an immediate return to civilian government” and adherence to the timetable for inclusive and transparent elections by 1 July 2024. It fully supports the mediation efforts of ECOWAS and the African Union.
Parliament expresses its deep concern about the allegations of human rights violations and “urges the next government to redefine its security response, in full partnership with the international community, in a manner that respects the rule of law, protects human rights and rebuilds public trust”.
It expresses its full support for the people of Burkina Faso, “who have suffered too many violent attacks often committed by jihadist groups”, and stresses that the EU is ready to become more involved in supporting Burkina Faso as soon as conditions allow.
For the time being, the resolution calls on the EU and its Member States to increase financial support and humanitarian aid to meet the urgent needs of the population in the country, where 4.9 million people are in need of humanitarian aid, including 3.4 million who are facing severe food insecurity.
Parliament condemns the attacks on the French embassy and consulate, the Institut Français and other European institutions and symbols in Burkina Faso during and after the coup.
It also expresses deep concern about the activities of Russia’s Wagner Group in the region and “strongly advises the next government against pursuing any kind of partnership with the Wagner Group”.
Faced with terrorism and instability in the Sahel region, MEPs call on the international community to increase cooperation and support to address these challenges.
See the text: https://aeur.eu/f/3pv (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)