On March 11, 2026, Senegal's parliament passed legislation that increases the maximum prison sentence for same-sex relations from five years to ten years.
The new law also introduces penalties for promoting or financing same-sex relationships, indicating a broader crackdown on LGBTQ rights.
This legislative change may have significant implications for the social and legal infrastructure surrounding LGBTQ issues in Senegal, reflecting a growing intolerance within the political framework.
Updates
Update at 23:10 UTC on 2026-03-11
Le Monde reported The new law, which must still be signed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, passed by an overwhelming majority and makes same-sex relations punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Sources: Le Monde
Update at 04:40 UTC on 2026-03-12
DW News reported Parliament approved legislation doubling prison sentences and increasing fines for same-sex relations, reflecting a broader push for stricter anti-LGBT laws in the region.
Sources: DW News