Burkina Faso has returned to Tier 2 in the U.S. rankings for combating human trafficking. Published on October 8, 2026, the U.S. State Department's annual report highlights several improvements in the country's actions, after two consecutive years on the Tier 2 watch list.
Among the progress mentioned are the increase in investigations, prosecutions, and convictions of traffickers, as well as the identification of a greater number of victims and their referral to protection services. Burkinabe authorities have also strengthened their cooperation with other countries in investigations into trafficking cases.
The report also highlights the creation of a specialized cybercrime unit, particularly those related to human trafficking facilitated by technology. This is complemented by enhanced training for officers tasked with identifying victims and measures to better protect migrant workers and children at risk of exploitation.
This reclassification marks a change from the 2024 and 2025 reports, in which Burkina Faso was on the level 2 watch list. According to the 2026 US assessment, it reflects efforts deemed more sustained in the fight against this phenomenon.
Maintaining prevention efforts, prosecuting perpetrators and effectively protecting victims therefore remain essential issues to consolidate the progress noted in this report.
Yolande Bazié
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