Burkina Faso: Future Police Officers Trained on International Protection and Refugee Management

Ouagadougou, November 17, 2025 - The Permanent Secretariat of the National Commission for Refugees (CONAREF) organized a training workshop on November 14 for trainees of the 55th class of the National Police School (ENP). The session aimed to strengthen their understanding of refugee protection mechanisms and the responsibilities of security forces in managing displaced populations.

Ambassador Vlé Flubert Traoré, Permanent Secretary of CONAREF, reaffirmed that these efforts demonstrate Burkina Faso’s commitment to honoring its international obligations in matters of refugee protection. He emphasized the importance of solidarity toward individuals forced to flee their countries, while stressing the need to reconcile this commitment with national security priorities.

He underscored that state security remains paramount and that authorities must prevent the entry or settlement of individuals who may pose risks. He encouraged the future police officers to fully engage in this training, which he described as essential to their professional development.

Representing the Director General of the ENP, Principal Commissioner Djibril Hié praised the initiative, noting that the workshop would equip trainees with specialized skills in international protection. CONAREF also presented the legal instruments governing the protection of refugees and asylum seekers in Burkina Faso.