Senegal doubles prison sentences for same-sex relations.
Senegal has passed a new law increasing prison sentences for homosexual acts. The law also makes promoting or funding homosexuality illegal. This has caused international concern about human rights.
On March 31, 2026, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye signed a law increasing the prison sentence for same-sex relationships to ten years. The legislation also prohibits the promotion and funding of homosexuality. Critics worry this law will harm LGBTQ+ people in Senegal. The National Assembly voted in March 2026 to approve the changes to the penal code. Human rights organizations have expressed concern about the impact of this law on freedom and safety.
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Highlights
Senegal Increases Penalties
Senegal has increased prison sentences for same-sex relationships to up to 10 years.
Law Doubles Prison Time
The new law doubles the previous penalty for homosexual acts.
Promotion of Relationships Criminalized
The legislation criminalizes the promotion and funding of homosexual relationships.
International Concern Raised
Human rights groups and organizations have expressed concern about LGBTQ+ rights.
Law Signed in March 2026
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye signed the law on March 31, 2026.
Perspectives
- Senegal has increased penalties for homosexuality.
- The new laws criminalize same-sex relationships.
- The legislation increases prison sentences for homosexual acts.
- International concern has been raised about human rights in Senegal.
Critics warn that the new laws could negatively impact civil society and HIV prevention efforts.
DW Deutsch, DW English
The law has sparked debate and raises concerns about judicial consequences.
France24, France24 English
The law criminalizes same-sex relationships and the promotion of such relationships.
RTBF, France24, France24 English
The law also criminalizes the ‘promotion’ of such relationships.
DW Deutsch, DW English