Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has signed into law a controversial piece of legislation that significantly increases penalties for same-sex relations and criminalises their “promotion”, drawing sharp reactions from rights groups and observers.

The new law doubles the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations from five years to ten years. Previously, such acts—described in Senegal’s penal code as “acts against nature”—were punishable by between one and five years in prison.

Under the revised legislation, individuals found guilty now face five to ten years’ imprisonment, alongside substantially increased fines. In addition, the law introduces a new offence targeting the promotion, support, or financing of homosexuality, expanding the scope of criminal liability beyond individuals directly involved in same-sex relations.

The bill was passed overwhelmingly by Senegal’s parliament before being assented to by President Faye, fulfilling a key campaign pledge made by the current administration. Senegal has long criminalised same-sex relations under a law dating back to 1966, but the latest amendment marks one of the most stringent updates in recent years.

Supporters of the law argue that it reflects the country’s cultural and religious values, with many lawmakers insisting that the move aligns with public sentiment.

However, the legislation has been widely criticised by international human rights organisations and advocacy groups, who say it infringes on fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and personal liberty. Critics warn that criminalising the “promotion” of homosexuality could be used to target activists, media organisations, and civil society actors.

The development places Senegal among a number of African countries maintaining strict legal prohibitions on same-sex relations, with varying degrees of enforcement and penalties across the continent.

Senegal strengthens anti-LGBT law as President Faye signs harsher punishment

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