Senegal to Debate Bill Doubling Penalty for Same-Sex Relations

On March 11, 2026, Senegal's National Assembly will convene to debate a controversial bill proposed by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, which seeks to double the maximum penalty for same-sex relations from five to ten years in prison. This legislative move comes amid an intensified crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals in Senegal, a predominantly Muslim nation.

Reports indicate that there has been a surge in arrests, with at least 30 individuals detained recently, including two local celebrities accused of acts against nature. The bill has sparked significant debate, particularly as it includes provisions that would impose prison sentences of three to seven years for those advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.

The situation has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, which have condemned the government's actions and the increasing online attacks against the LGBTQ+ community. The National Assembly's review of the bill follows a plenary session where the document was signed on a Friday prior to the debate.