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Senegal Parliament Doubles Prison Terms for Same-Sex Relations

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senegal's parliament approved a bill doubling the maximum prison term for same-sex relations to 10 years, with 135 votes for and three abstentions.
The legislation also punishes LGBTQ+ rights advocacy with three to seven years in prison.
Senegalese lawmaker Diaraye Ba said, "Homosexuals will no longer breathe in this country," signaling support.
The bill now awaits presidential approval after Imam Babacar Sylla urged President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to sign quickly.

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Story summary

Senegal's parliament approved a bill doubling the maximum prison term for same-sex relations to 10 years, with 135 votes for and three abstentions.
The legislation also punishes LGBTQ+ rights advocacy with three to seven years in prison.
Senegalese lawmaker Diaraye Ba said, "Homosexuals will no longer breathe in this country," signaling support.
The bill now awaits presidential approval after Imam Babacar Sylla urged President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to sign quickly.