Four French nationals detained in Burkina Faso for over a year have been released, thanks to mediation efforts led by Morocco. The development, announced on Thursday by both French and Moroccan authorities, marks a resolution to a diplomatic standoff that had underscored strained relations between France and its former colonies in West Africa.
The detainees, held in Ouagadougou since December 2023, were reportedly accused of espionage. The head of France’s foreign intelligence agency (DGSE) previously referred to them as spies, though neither the French military nor the DGSE have issued comments on the matter.
The French presidency said in a statement that President Emmanuel Macron had on Wednesday thanked Morocco’s King Mohammed for his mediation “which made possible the liberation of our four countrymen who had been held in Burkina Faso for a year”.
Morocco’s foreign ministry also praised King Mohammed and Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traore and said “this humanitarian act” was made possible due to the good relations between their countries.
The release comes on the heels of improved ties between France and Morocco after three years of diplomatic tensions fuelled by disagreements over immigration and the Western Sahara dispute. Relations were officially mended in October 2024, with both nations taking significant steps to rebuild trust.
Morocco, which has maintained strong diplomatic ties with Burkina Faso and other military-led Sahel states, continues to position itself as a bridge for global trade access through the Atlantic. This strategic relationship likely played a key role in facilitating the negotiations.
While Morocco’s mediation highlights its growing influence in the region, France continues to face strained relations with several former colonies in West and Central Africa, including Burkina Faso. The West African nation, governed by a military junta since a 2022 coup, has expelled French troops and diplomats, including its defence attaché and ambassador. Additionally, French media outlets have been suspended in Burkina Faso, exacerbating diplomatic tensions.
The junta has also faced criticism from international human rights groups over crackdowns on freedom of speech and the intimidation of dissenting voices as it grapples with ongoing insecurity fuelled by militant groups linked to Al Qaeda and Islamic State.
The release of the French nationals stands as a rare success in an otherwise tumultuous relationship between France and Burkina Faso. It also underscores Morocco’s growing role as a mediator in the region, leveraging its strong diplomatic ties to promote stability and cooperation.
Melissa Enoch
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