Burkina Faso rolls out online criminal complaint filing to modernize justice 🇧🇫 🖥️

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Burkina Faso has unveiled a new digital platform that allows citizens to file criminal complaints online, directly with public prosecutors. Known as the “Prosecutor Module of the Criminal Justice Chain,” the system aims to simplify legal procedures, cut administrative delays, and make access to justice easier for everyone.

Modernizing access to justice ⚖️

On December 15, the Ministry of Digital Transition and the Ministry of Justice announced the completion of the platform, which was officially launched in Ouagadougou. With this tool, citizens can now submit complaints without having to travel to a prosecutor’s office.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize a justice system that remains largely paper-based. The platform introduces a fully integrated digital workflow, enabling users to file complaints, track case progress, submit supporting information, and access rulings. All processes are handled through a centralized, secure digital system.

Faster, simpler procedures 🚀

The new service is expected to ease congestion at physical court offices, where backlogs and long wait times are common. In many regions, citizens still have to travel long distances to reach a prosecutor’s office, adding cost and friction to an already slow process.

By moving complaint submissions online, authorities hope to create a smoother user experience while improving coordination among judicial actors. The platform also enhances traceability, reducing the risk of lost documents and administrative errors.

A step forward in the country’s digital transformation 🌐

The launch of the Prosecutor Module fits into a broader digital strategy pursued by Burkinabe authorities over the past few years. In 2023, the country rolled out online access to criminal record certificates nationwide. Efforts are also underway to modernize the Justice Ministry’s information systems as part of the digitalization of the criminal justice chain.

That said, significant challenges remain. According to the United Nations’ 2024 E-Government Development Index, Burkina Faso ranks 175th out of 193 countries, with a score of 0.2895. The ranking highlights how much work is still needed to improve digital public services.

Expected impact 📊

Over time, the platform could significantly reshape how the justice system operates. Data generated through the Prosecutor Module will help authorities better understand processing times, complaint types, and regions facing the greatest challenges.

These insights are expected to support more targeted reforms and improve public service efficiency. Ultimately, the goal is to deliver a justice system that is faster, more transparent, and closer to citizens—regardless of where they live.

👉🏾 Do you think online complaints can really make justice more accessible in Burkina Faso?