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Niger Enacts Harsh Anti-LGBTQ Law, 5-10 Year Prison Terms

6/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In February, Niger’s military government enacted a penal code banning same-sex marriage and LGBTQ organisations, criminalising same-sex relations with five-to-ten-year sentences and penalties up to twenty years in prison.
Justice Minister Alio Daouda said the law reflects Niger’s social values and presented it at the UN Human Rights Council.
The law, after pressure from Muslim groups, aligns Niger with Burkina Faso, Ghana and Senegal in tightening penalties for LGBTQ activities.

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Story summary

In February, Niger’s military government enacted a penal code banning same-sex marriage and LGBTQ organisations, criminalising same-sex relations with five-to-ten-year sentences and penalties up to twenty years in prison.
Justice Minister Alio Daouda said the law reflects Niger’s social values and presented it at the UN Human Rights Council.
The law, after pressure from Muslim groups, aligns Niger with Burkina Faso, Ghana and Senegal in tightening penalties for LGBTQ activities.