Military Coups as Pathways to Decolonisation? A Systematic Review of the 2022 Burkina Faso Case in the Sahelian Context

Abstract

This paper examines whether Burkina Faso’s 2022 coup, and the junta’s initial declarations and actions, signal decolonisation in the Sahel. Using a systematic literature review (reported with PRISMA as a transparency tool) and an integrated theoretical lens combining decoloniality and dependency theory, the study synthesises scholarship and policy material on regional realignments, political economy, social–cultural reform, and ideology. Findings show clear decolonial intent: formation of the Alliance of Sahel States, exits from ECOWAS and other multilaterals, termination of Western military footprints, resource nationalism, agro-financing, curricular and symbolic reforms, and Sankarist revival. Outcomes remain hybrid: Bretton Woods macro-anchors, capacity constraints, humanitarian stress, and the risk that new partnerships (Russia, Turkey, China) reproduce extractive hierarchies. The coup is therefore indicative of a decolonial turn in direction, not yet in structure. Material decolonisation requires phased AES implementation, macro–structural sequencing, transparent value-addition, civilian-controlled security reform, and inclusive social policy rooted in durable regional solidarity.