Senegal PM proposes doubling jail terms for same-sex acts
Deutsche Welle
February 24, 2026
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Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has proposed legislation to double the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations from five years to ten years. The move comes amid a wave of recent arrests, including high-profile cases involving public figures, which have sparked widespread media attention and debate. Sonko outlined the bill during a parliamentary session, emphasizing that acts of a sexual nature between individuals of the same sex would be classified as “unnatural” under the revised penal code. He also clarified that if such acts involve minors, the maximum penalty would apply.
The proposed law has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who argue that it further stigmatizes LGBTQ+ individuals and exacerbates concerns over their safety and rights in Senegal. Rights groups like Human Rights Watch (HRW) have warned that these changes undermine protections for marginalized communities and violate international human rights standards. They urge the Senegalese government to repeal discriminatory laws and release those arrested under similar charges.
The bill has become a contentious political issue, with Sonko calling on lawmakers to support it despite opposition from some parties. He dismissed criticism from opponents, suggesting they may be influenced by external pressures. The debate reflects broader societal tensions in Senegal, where traditional values and religious influences often clash with progressive rights advocacy.
This proposed legislation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Senegal, where same-sex relations are already criminalized under colonial-era laws. Advocacy groups fear that increasing penalties will only deepen discrimination and push people further into the shadows, making it harder for them to access legal protections or social services.
The issue has gained international attention, with human rights organizations calling on the Senegalese government to uphold its obligations to protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of sexual orientation. The outcome of this legislative proposal will have significant implications not only for Senegal’s internal policies but also for its reputation as a nation committed to human rights and equality.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/24/2026