Senegal anti-LGBT law: PM Ousmane Sonko seeks tougher legislation, doubling prison terms

BBC World

February 25, 2026

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Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has proposed a bill that doubles the maximum prison term for same-sex relations, increasing it to up to 10 years. This move comes after a series of high-profile arrests linked to alleged same-sex relationships, which are already illegal in the Muslim-majority West African country. The bill defines such acts as "acts against nature" and imposes penalties ranging from five to 10 years for those convicted. Sonko emphasized that crimes involving minors would face the maximum penalty, while fines of up to 10 million CFA ($18,000; £13,000) could also be imposed. The bill further targets those who advocate for or promote same-sex relations, prescribing prison terms of three to seven years. The proposed legislation reflects a broader trend of conservative values in Senegal and other African countries. It aligns with increasing restrictions on LGBT rights across the continent, where several nations have recently introduced similar laws criminalizing same-sex relationships. For instance, Burkina Faso and Mali have also approved stringent anti-LGBT measures in recent years. Sonko's bill has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations, which argue that it violates internationally protected rights, including equality and non-discrimination. The bill defines any sexual conduct between individuals of the same sex as an "act against nature," further restricting the rights of LGBT communities. It also imposes penalties for accusing others of homosexuality without evidence, a provision critics say silences victims and activists. The legislation is particularly concerning given Senegal's already conservative societal attitudes toward LGBT issues, where many view such activism as foreign interference. The proposed law has sparked outrage among human rights advocates, who argue that it reinforces discrimination against the LGBT community and undermines progress toward equality. While Sonko claims the revised law maintains the offense at a misdemeanor level, critics argue that the increased penalties and broader scope

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Originally published on BBC World on 2/25/2026