The Government of Burkina Faso has declared two European Union diplomats persona non grata, ordering their immediate departure from the country. The decision, announced today, follows a recent escalation in diplomatic tensions between Ouagadougou and Brussels.
Diplomatic expulsion: no official explanation provided
Two senior EU officials stationed in the capital—the Deputy Head of Delegation responsible for press and information and a Programme Officer—have been given 72 hours to leave Burkina Faso, effective from the date of notification. Authorities have not disclosed the reasons behind this move, leaving observers to speculate on possible underlying factors.
This expulsion comes shortly after Burkina Faso summoned the EU Ambassador, Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi, on June 22. The meeting, held with the country’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré, was reportedly prompted by Burkina Faso’s strong objection to a European Parliament resolution it deemed “hostile” and an “unwarranted interference” in its internal affairs.
EU-Burkina Faso relations deteriorate further
Relations between Burkina Faso and the European Union have visibly soured in recent weeks. On June 26, Ouagadougou took the drastic step of cutting all diplomatic ties with France, accusing Paris of undermining its sovereignty and national stability.
Analysts suggest these developments reflect a broader shift in Burkina Faso’s foreign policy, prioritizing national sovereignty and greater autonomy from traditional Western partners. The timing of the EU diplomats’ expulsion—just weeks after the rupture with France—signals a potential realignment in the country’s diplomatic strategy.
While the immediate fallout remains unclear, the decision underscores growing friction between Burkina Faso and its international allies, raising questions about the future of cooperation in areas such as security, development, and humanitarian aid.
