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Senegal enacts stricter anti-LGBT legislation
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has signed a law increasing the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations to 10 years, while also criminalizing the promotion of homosexuality.
Key provisions of the new law
The legislation doubles the previous maximum prison term for same-sex acts. Additionally, it introduces penalties of three to seven years in prison for individuals or groups found guilty of promoting homosexuality, including public representation or financial support of LGBTQ+ activities.
Political and public backing
The law was a central campaign promise of President Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. It received overwhelming support in parliament, with 135 lawmakers voting in favor, none opposing, and three abstaining during the 11 March session.
International condemnation
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk criticized the law as "deeply worrying," stating it contradicts fundamental human rights. Despite appeals from the UN and human rights organizations urging the president not to sign the bill, the Senegalese government defended the measure, asserting it aligns with public sentiment.
Recent crackdowns and historical context
The legislation follows a series of arrests linked to alleged same-sex relationships, which were already illegal in Senegal. In February, 12 men, including two public figures and a journalist, were detained and charged with "acts against nature."
Human Rights Watch has reported an increase in hostility toward LGBTQ+ individuals in Senegal. Lawmakers had previously attempted to stiffen penalties in 2022 and 2024 but were unsuccessful.
Broader trend in Africa
Senegal joins several other African nations in tightening laws against the LGBTQ+ community. Burkina Faso passed a similar ban on homosexual acts in September 2025, following Mali's lead in 2024. Uganda enacted some of the world's harshest anti-homosexuality laws in 2023, including the death penalty for certain same-sex acts. Ghana is also considering reintroducing an anti-LGBTQ+ bill that activists warn could endanger human rights and personal freedoms.
"This law flies in the face of sacrosanct human rights."
Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
