For some years now, Burkina Faso has faced a number of security and humanitarian challenges. In the light of ongoing armed violence, including a series of tragic incidents, the ICRC and the Burkinabe Red Cross Society are extremely concerned about the humanitarian impact on the civilian population.

As Laurent Saugy, head of the ICRC’s delegation in Burkina Faso, says: “We are particularly concerned about the fate of civilian populations. More than ever, we need to uphold and ensure respect for international humanitarian law, which safeguards the principle of humanity. It is vital to protect civilians and their property, as well as people not participating in hostilities.”

The ICRC and the Burkinabe Red Cross Society are also concerned about the false information about the Red Cross circulating in the press and on social media. “In our digital age, information circulates extremely fast and is easily manipulated. We need to be responsible about what we share, especially on social networks. Misinformation and disinformation can have a major impact on our humanitarian work, with negative repercussions for the people we help,” explains Lazare Zoungrana, secretary-general of the Burkinabe Red Cross Society.

It is important to remember that the Fundamental Principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence govern all the actions of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. We do not support any party to an armed conflict or other situation of violence. Although our humanitarian principles are often challenged, they remain at the core of our work and serve only one purpose: to ensure access and help to people in need. The Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement save lives.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).