Senegal Approves Tough Anti-Gay Law

By: Paul Goldberg — Senior Correspondent | LGBT International News

DAKAR, SENEGAL — (March 12, 2026) — Senegal’s parliament has approved sweeping legislation that significantly strengthens the country’s criminal penalties for same-sex relationships, a move that has triggered alarm among international human rights organizations and LGBTQ advocates worldwide.

Lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to approve the measure, which increases the maximum prison sentence for same-sex sexual acts to 10 years and introduces new penalties targeting the “promotion of homosexuality.” According to parliamentary records, 135 lawmakers supported the bill, while no members voted against it and three abstained.

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The legislation now heads to the desk of Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who is expected to review the bill before it can be formally enacted into law.

The proposal was introduced by the government led by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, fulfilling a campaign promise to strengthen Senegal’s existing laws banning same-sex relationships. Homosexual acts are already illegal in Senegal, but the new measure dramatically increases penalties and expands criminal liability to include individuals accused of advocating or promoting LGBTQ rights.

Global Human Rights Concerns

International human rights organizations quickly voiced concern about the new legislation.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk described the bill as “deeply worrying” and urged Senegalese leadership to reconsider before the law is formally enacted.

Human rights advocates warn that expanding criminal penalties could increase harassment, violence, and discrimination against LGBTQ individuals across the West African nation.

Researchers from Human Rights Watch cautioned that criminalizing same-sex relationships and LGBTQ advocacy violates fundamental international protections related to equality, privacy, and non-discrimination.

“Criminalising same-sex conduct and arresting people because of their sexual orientation violates multiple internationally protected rights,” said researcher Larissa Kojoué.

Government Defends Law as Cultural Policy

Officials within the Senegalese government have dismissed international criticism, arguing the legislation reflects prevailing cultural and religious attitudes within the country.

Government spokesperson Amadou Moustapha Ndieck Sarré defended the measure, stating that the law reflects the will of the Senegalese public.

“The majority of Senegalese do not accept homosexuality. Our culture rejects it and we are firmly opposed to it,” he said.

Conservative advocacy groups inside Senegal have long pushed for stricter enforcement of anti-LGBTQ laws. Organizations such as And Sàmm Jikko Yi, which promotes what it calls traditional Senegalese moral values, have campaigned for expanded penalties targeting LGBTQ communities.

Fears of Increased Arrests and Migration

The legislation follows a wave of arrests earlier this year involving individuals accused of engaging in same-sex relationships. Authorities detained at least 12 men, including several public figures and a journalist.

Local LGBTQ advocates warn the new law could push already marginalized communities further underground.

Dr. Charles Dotou, head of a Senegal LGBTQ advocacy organization, warned the legislation may force many LGBTQ individuals to hide their identities or leave the country entirely.

“People will be hiding more. It will create fear, and individuals will be scared to live normally within their communities,” Dotou said.

Analysts also warn the law could worsen social tensions and complicate public health efforts related to HIV prevention and LGBTQ outreach.

Growing Divide Over LGBTQ Rights

Senegal now joins a growing list of African nations strengthening criminal penalties targeting LGBTQ communities, even as global human rights organizations call for decriminalization and equal protection under international law.

Advocates fear that expanding anti-gay laws across parts of Africa could further isolate LGBTQ individuals and increase risks of violence and discrimination.

For continued coverage of global LGBTQ human rights developments and international political news affecting LGBTQ communities worldwide, stay with JRL CHARTS — LGBT International News.