Global human rights organizations are urgently calling on Senegal to safeguard the fundamental rights of its citizens. Currently, a significant wave of state-sponsored homophobia is sweeping across the West African nation. This trend has led to high-profile arrests and created an atmosphere of pervasive fear.
Earlier this month, gendarmes in Dakar apprehended 12 men. This group included a prominent television journalist and a well-known musician. Specifically, they face severe charges, including “acts against nature“—a legal term for same-sex conduct. Additionally, authorities have accused them of the intentional transmission of HIV.
Escalating Legal Persecution in Dakar
The arrests took place on February 6 and February 9, 2026. Consequently, they have intensified international scrutiny of Senegal’s Penal Code. At present, Article 319 allows for prison sentences of up to five years for consensual same-sex acts. However, the new charges involving HIV transmission carry even harsher penalties. If convicted, these individuals could face up to ten years in prison.
The fallout from these detentions extends far beyond the courtroom. For instance, media coverage has been accused of fueling public stigma.
Meanwhile, health workers are sounding the alarm over privacy breaches. Many HIV-focused community health workers fear for their safety. They worry authorities may target them through contact tracing data found on the detainees’ personal devices.
A Growing Climate of Social Hostility
Senegal has seen a sharp rise in hostility toward the LGBT community in recent years. While homosexuality is not explicitly named in the law, the “unnatural acts” clause is a common tool for persecution. Authorities frequently use it to target individuals based on their perceived sexual orientation.
Despite the existing harsh penalties, conservative pressure groups are demanding even stricter legislation. Specifically, the group And Samm Djikko Yi (Together to Protect Values) has become a central voice in this movement.
They are currently demanding that the government further criminalize homosexuality. Furthermore, they have threatened a nationwide campaign if new, more punitive laws are not enacted by April 8, 2026.
Key Legal and Social Developments:
- Failed Legislation: Two recent parliamentary attempts to double prison sentences failed to pass. These bills sought terms of 10 to 15 years.
- Public Unrest: In recent months, mobs have reportedly engaged in violent acts against those perceived as gay. Some of these incidents were captured on video and circulated on social media.
- Medical Privacy at Risk: Rights groups argue that using medical status as a criminal charge undermines HIV prevention. It deters vulnerable people from seeking essential care.
The Global Human Rights Response
Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and local advocacy groups are urging Senegalese authorities to release the 12 men immediately. They are also calling for the repeal of Article 319. They argue it violates the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which Senegal has ratified.
“Criminalizing sexual orientation and using HIV status as a tool for prosecution is a violation of international norms,” stated a researcher for Human Rights Watch. Advocates warn that the current trajectory could lead to “state-sponsored terror” against a vulnerable segment of the population.
Looking Ahead: The April Deadline
The coming weeks are critical for the legal landscape in Senegal. As the April deadline set by conservative groups approaches, international diplomats are monitoring the situation closely.
Currently, the government faces a delicate balance. It must choose between satisfying influential domestic religious organizations and adhering to its international human rights obligations.
Next Steps for the Public: The situation remains fluid as legal teams for the 12 men prepare for trial. Would you like me to track the official court proceedings and alert you when a verdict is announced?
READ ALSO: Justice for Mirabel: Viral Sexual Assault Case Transferred to Ogun Police
