In early March, Senegal passed legislation doubling prison sentences for same-sex relationships, raising penalties to five to ten years behind bars. The bill was officially signed into law by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on March 31.

Rejecting international criticism

During a parliamentary address, Prime Minister Sonko dismissed foreign criticism—particularly from France—regarding the new law. He also firmly rejected calls for a moratorium on enforcement, despite a mid-May appeal from over thirty prominent figures of African descent published in a major French newspaper. These voices had warned of a growing climate of fear, hatred, and violence since the law’s adoption.

“Ending the ‘proliferation’ of homosexuality”

The Prime Minister instead urged the judiciary to enforce the law rigorously, emphasizing its goal to curb the ‘spread’ of homosexuality. This rhetoric resonates strongly within Senegal’s political landscape but risks exacerbating social tensions. By criminalizing consensual adult relationships, authorities may inadvertently fuel discrimination, denunciations, and violence. While debates on LGBTQ+ rights vary globally, safeguarding human dignity and preventing hate-driven harm should remain universal priorities.