Senegal’s National Assembly has approved a controversial law that doubles the maximum prison sentence for consensual same-sex relationships from five to ten years, a move that has drawn both local support and international criticism.
The bill, passed on March 11, 2026, saw 135 lawmakers vote in favour, with no votes against and three abstentions. It now awaits the signature of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to become law.
The legislation increases penalties for consensual same-sex sexual acts and also criminalises related activities, including promotion, financing, or advocacy of homosexuality. Convictions under the new law could attract hefty fines alongside prison terms.
Judges will be restricted from granting reduced or suspended sentences, and cases involving minors carry mandatory maximum sentences. Previously, sentences ranged from one to five years; the new law imposes 5–10 years in prison.
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who introduced the bill, said the measure reflects Senegalese social and cultural values. Supporters argue that the law protects the family unit and aligns with the country’s conservative moral and religious norms.
In the weeks leading up to the vote, media reports indicated dozens of arrests related to anti-LGBT laws. Authorities have said the updated law will be strictly enforced once signed.
After presidential approval, the law will officially replace existing penal code provisions on same-sex relations.