Senegal Enacts Tough New Anti-LGBTQ+ Law, Doubling Prison Sentences and Criminalizing ‘Promotion’
DAKAR – Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has signed into law a controversial piece of legislation that significantly increases penalties for same-sex relations, imposing prison sentences of up to 10 years—double the previous maximum term.
The new law, which was overwhelmingly approved by parliament earlier this month, also criminalizes the “promotion” of homosexuality, a broad provision that rights groups warn could be used to target activists, journalists, and human rights defenders. Those found guilty of supporting or financing activities related to homosexuality now face jail time, alongside a sharp increase in fines.
The move fulfills campaign pledges made by President Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko ahead of the 2024 elections. Both leaders had signaled their intent to toughen the country’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues, a position that has resonated with significant segments of the Senegalese public.
The new legislation expands the scope of prosecutable offenses beyond the act itself. Under the revised penal code, individuals accused of advocating for or providing material support to LGBTQ+ individuals or organizations can now be prosecuted, marking a substantial hardening of the country’s already restrictive legal environment.
The decision has drawn swift condemnation from international human rights organizations. United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Türk criticized the law, stating that it undermines fundamental freedoms, including the rights to dignity, privacy, and expression.
“The adoption of such legislation runs counter to fundamental human rights principles,” Türk said in a statement, urging the government to uphold its international commitments.
Despite the international backlash, the Senegalese government has maintained its stance, citing domestic support for the tougher measures. The bill’s passage and enactment reflect a broader trend in the region, where several countries have recently moved to strengthen laws criminalizing same-sex conduct amid ongoing societal and political pressure.
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