The President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has approved a new law strengthening the repression of same-sex relations and prohibiting any "promotion" of homosexuality. This decision brings into force a text that has sparked strong reactions internationally.
Passed overwhelmingly by parliamentarians earlier this month, the law notably doubles the maximum prison sentence, now set at ten years, for same-sex sexual acts. It also criminalizes any form of support or public visibility related to LGBT individuals.
The head of state had been pressured by international human rights organizations not to sign the text. Despite these appeals, the government confirmed its promulgation in an official statement.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, had already denounced on March 12 a law that "violates human rights", particularly those related to dignity, privacy and freedom of expression.
This reform is in line with the commitments made during the 2024 presidential campaign by Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who had promised to strengthen legislation on these issues.
The text reflects a political position supported by a segment of the population in a country where homosexuality is already criminalized. However, it comes amidst tensions between local norms and international human rights standards.
Human rights advocates denounce an attack on fundamental freedoms and fear an increase in discrimination and violence against those affected.
For its part, the Senegalese government defends a law that conforms to the country's societal values, asserting its sovereignty in defining its public policies.
This decision could have diplomatic repercussions and strengthen debates on the protection of minority rights in the region.
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