Senegal's PM introduces bill doubling prison sentences for same-sex relations
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 24, 2026
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Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has introduced a bill that doubles the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations, increasing penalties from one to five years to five to 10 years. This move comes amid a surge in homophobia and arrests targeting individuals accused of same-sex relations, which are already criminalized under Senegalese law. The bill, approved by ministers and sent to the National Assembly, also penalizes those who advocate for LGBTQ rights or accuse others without evidence.
The legislation amends the penal code to define any sexual act between two people of the same sex as "an act against nature," further criminalizing same-sex relations. It also imposes three to seven years in prison for anyone promoting same-sex advocacy. This bill follows the arrest of 12 men, including celebrities and a journalist, under anti-LGBTQ laws. Human rights groups, such as Human Rights Watch, have condemned the bill, calling it discriminatory and dangerous for LGBTQ individuals and those living with HIV/AIDS.
The bill ties same-sex relations to child sex abuse cases, stating that if an act is committed with a minor, the maximum sentence applies. This conflation has led to confusion and concern among advocates, who fear further criminalization of vulnerable groups. The proposed laws reflect broader societal tensions in Senegal, where religious and cultural norms often clash with LGBTQ rights, and where homophobia is increasingly normalized on social media.
The bill's introduction raises significant human rights concerns, particularly regarding the safety and freedoms of LGBTQ individuals in Senegal. International obligations to protect human rights are at odds with this proposed legislation, which activists argue violates fundamental principles of equality and dignity. As the bill awaits a parliamentary vote, the global community remains watchful, urging the Senegalese government to respect its international commitments and protect its citizens' rights.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/24/2026