Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has approved legislation doubling the maximum prison term for same-sex sexual acts to 10 years. The bill, which cleared parliament earlier this month, has now taken effect following an official statement.
The new law also criminalises efforts to promote or finance same-sex relationships. Penalties are included for those found guilty of these actions, alongside those engaging in same-sex relations.
This enactment comes amid a crackdown on Senegal’s gay community, significantly increasing the potential punishment for same-sex activity within the country. The legislation further penalizes false allegations in addition to promotion and funding.