Burkina Faso has been upgraded to Tier 2 in the US State Department’s 2026 Trafficking in Persons Report, following progress in investigations, prosecutions and victim protection.
The report, published on October 8, highlighted increased convictions of traffickers, stronger protection for vulnerable children and migrant workers, and the creation of a specialised cybercrime unit to investigate offences including technology-facilitated trafficking.
US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for West Africa Richard Michaels acknowledged Burkina Faso’s efforts during a meeting with the country’s foreign minister at the inaugural session of the two countries’ Joint Working Group in Ouagadougou.
Michaels attributed the revised assessment to direct exchanges with Burkinabè stakeholders, which helped provide more accurate information on the country’s anti-trafficking measures.
The report also cited expanded training for frontline personnel and increased cooperation with other governments on trafficking investigations.
Burkina Faso’s foreign minister welcomed the reassessment and called for continued cooperation with international partners in tackling human trafficking.
