Senegal President Signs Law Doubling Jail Terms for Same-Sex Relationships in Major Blow to LGBTQ+ Rights

Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has signed into law a sweeping piece of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that doubles the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relationships to 10 years — a deeply troubling development for the global LGBTQ+ community and a stark reminder of the very real dangers that millions of people continue to face around the world.

The new law, reported by BBC News, goes beyond increasing prison terms. It also criminalises the "promotion" of homosexuality — a vague and dangerously broad provision that covers public representation and financial support from both individuals and organisations. Those found guilty of "promotion" face between three and seven years in prison, placing LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, allies, and even businesses that publicly support inclusion at serious legal risk.

A Campaign Promise Turned Law

The legislation was a campaign pledge of both President Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, and it passed through the National Assembly on 11 March with an overwhelming majority — 135 votes in favour, none against, and only three abstentions. It comes on the back of a wave of arrests targeting people in same-sex relationships, which were already illegal under existing Senegalese law. In February alone, 12 men — including a journalist and two public figures — were arrested and charged with "acts against nature."

International Condemnation

The international response has been swift and clear. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk described the law as "deeply worrying," stating that it "flies in the face of sacrosanct human rights." Rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch, had urged President Faye not to sign the bill, noting a sharp rise in hostility toward LGBTQ+ people in the country in recent months. The Senegalese government, however, dismissed all international criticism, insisting the law reflects the will of its people.

A Troubling Regional Trend

Senegal is not alone. Across Africa, a growing number of governments have moved to tighten already restrictive legislation against LGBTQ+ people. Burkina Faso banned homosexual acts in September 2024, following neighbouring Mali. Uganda passed some of the world's harshest anti-homosexuality laws in 2023, with provisions that can result in the death penalty in certain circumstances. Ghana is also reportedly planning to reintroduce a similar bill that activists warn threatens fundamental human rights and safety.

Why This Matters for the Global LGBTQ+ Workforce

At myGwork, we believe that everyone deserves to live and work free from fear, discrimination, and persecution — regardless of who they are or who they love. Laws like this don't only affect those within Senegal's borders. They send a chilling message to LGBTQ+ professionals worldwide, particularly those working in or travelling to regions where their identities are criminalised.

We stand in solidarity with all LGBTQ+ people in Senegal and across Africa who are facing increasing hostility and legal jeopardy. We call on governments, international institutions, and inclusive employers everywhere to use their platforms and influence to push back against the criminalisation of LGBTQ+ identities — and to support the organisations on the ground that are working tirelessly to protect human rights.

Source: BBC News