Burkina Faso enacts law banning homosexuality

Burkina Faso's transitional government has unanimously approved a law criminalizing same-sex sexual activity. The legislation, passed on Monday as part of a broader reform of family and citizenship laws, introduces potential prison sentences of two to five years for individuals found in violation.

The Justice Minister, Edasso Rodrigue Bayala, stated on national broadcaster RTB that the law targets "homosexual or similar practices" and "bizarre behavior," leading to judicial proceedings and, in the case of foreign nationals, deportation. Government officials have indicated plans to launch a public awareness campaign to promote the new legislation.

Prior to this decision, same-sex relations were not explicitly outlawed in Burkina Faso, even as approximately 30 other African nations have laws criminalizing homosexuality. This action places Burkina Faso alongside Mali, another junta-led nation, which passed similar anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in November 2024.

As reported by France 24, this development follows a trend of increased legislative action against LGBTQ+ individuals in several African countries, including Ghana and Uganda, which have faced international condemnation for toughening their stance on same-sex relations. Uganda's laws, in particular, have drawn severe criticism for imposing harsh penalties, including life imprisonment and the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality."

The enactment of this law raises concerns about the safety and human rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Burkina Faso and may further marginalize a community already facing significant challenges. Advocacy groups are urging the government to reconsider the legislation and uphold the principles of equality and non-discrimination.