Burkina Faso: The FCDO advises against all travel to Burkina Faso, citing the threat of terrorist attacks, terrorist kidnap and an unstable political situation. There is a very high threat of kidnapping by Al-Qaeda and regional Islamic State affiliated groups, with British nationals including business travellers seen as legitimate targets, and attacks are concentrated near the borders with Mali, Niger and Cote d'Ivoire and in the eastern region.
Security licensing: The Security Industry Authority is consulting on changes to security-licence qualifications, published on 28 August 2026 and closing on 23 October 2026. Proposals include making an in-date first aid qualification a licence condition for close protection operatives, door supervisors and security guards, an additional English language test, and a question over whether licence integration should end.
United Kingdom threat level: The threat to the UK from terrorism remains SEVERE, meaning an attack is highly likely. The threat to Northern Ireland from Northern Ireland-related terrorism is SUBSTANTIAL.
