The government of Burkina Faso has rejected a proposal from the United States to host individuals deported from the US, including third-country nationals. According to Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the proposal was deemed "indecent" and incompatible with the country's values. In October 2025, Traoré stated that Burkina Faso is a "land of dignity, a destination, and not a land of deportation."
The US has been actively seeking alternative destinations for individuals who cannot be returned to their countries of origin. Since Donald Trump's return to the White House in January 2025, the US has concluded agreements with 35 countries to host deported individuals. According to an investigation by Forbidden Stories, 49 out of 54 African countries have been approached by Washington as part of this policy.
Some African countries have accepted the US proposal. Cameroon and Eswatini are among the countries that have agreed to host deported individuals. In January, a first plane carrying deported individuals arrived in Cameroon. In Eswatini, 32 people have been received since July 2025 as part of a $5 million agreement, equivalent to over 2.8 billion FCFA.
The investigation by Forbidden Stories reveals that at least $410 million, approximately 233 billion FCFA, has been allocated for these programs. A portion of the funds will be used to support signatory governments and international organizations, including the IOM and UNHCR.
The US has reportedly transferred over 25,447 individuals to 28 third countries since the implementation of this policy. The agreements have been made with countries that have been approached by Washington to host deported individuals who cannot be returned to their countries of origin.
The rejection by Burkina Faso reflects concerns about sovereignty and dignity. The country's stance is in contrast to that of some other African nations that have accepted the US proposal. The implications of this policy on the individuals being deported and the host countries remain to be seen.
The US policy has sparked controversy and debate. While some countries have accepted the proposal, others have rejected it, citing concerns about dignity and sovereignty. The situation highlights the complexities of international cooperation on migration and deportation issues.
Key points
- Burkina Faso rejected a US proposal to host deported individuals, citing dignity and sovereignty concerns.
- The US has concluded agreements with 35 countries to host deported individuals who cannot be returned to their countries of origin.
- At least $410 million has been allocated for programs supporting the deportation of individuals to third countries.
