Trending Now - Senegal Enacts Stricter Laws Against Homosexuality Amid Backlash

WHO:

Senegal's parliament

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye

Islamic value-promoting groups

Rights groups raising concerns

WHAT:

Senegal's parliament approved a bill that toughens punishment for homosexuality.

The bill doubles the punishment for those convicted from prison sentences of one to five years to between five and ten years.

The proposed law punishes the “promotion” or “financing” of homosexuality.

Fines for promoting homosexuality raised to a maximum of 10 million CFA (approximately $17,609).

The law classifies homosexuality along with necrophilia and bestiality under “acts against nature” offenses.

At least a dozen people have been arrested by police in connection with alleged homosexual acts.

WHERE:

Dakar, Senegal

Senegal, a largely Muslim West African nation

WHEN:

The bill was introduced to parliament in February 2026.

The parliamentary vote occurred on March 11th, 2026.

WHY:

The bill fulfills a campaign promise of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.

Ministers argued that the previous 1966 law was too lenient.

HOW:

Nearly all lawmakers voted in favor of the bill, with no opposition and three abstentions.

The bill requires presidential assent before becoming law, with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye expected to sign it.

(UPDATED March 12, 2026 13:23 UTC)

Senegal's parliament has approved a controversial bill that significantly increases the penalties for homosexuality, doubling prison sentences from one to five years to between five and ten years. The legislation, which also raises fines for promoting homosexuality to a maximum of 10 million CFA, classifies it alongside necrophilia and bestiality as an "act against nature." Nearly all lawmakers voted in favor of the bill, which fulfills a campaign promise by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, and it now awaits the expected signature of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to become law.