The Senegalese government has taken a significant step towards tightening its laws on homosexuality by approving a bill that proposes to double the prison sentences for homosexual acts and increase monetary fines. Adopted by the Council of Ministers, this draft law aims to enact stricter penalties specifically targeting what are classified as 'unnatural acts,' thus broadening the existing criminal legislation. The legislation now faces parliamentary approval before it can be enacted.

This legislative move is rooted in a promise made by the ruling Pastef party, under Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, reflecting a political agenda that prioritizes the reinforcement of conservative social values. The proposed changes would see prison sentences for those convicted of such acts increase dramatically, potentially reaching up to ten years, alongside substantial fines that could rise to 10 million CFA francs from the current ceiling of 1.5 million. This development is sure to provoke responses from human rights advocates both locally and internationally, as it signals an increasingly repressive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in Senegal.

The context of this legislative change suggests a broader strategy by the government to consolidate its support base among conservative groups in the country, particularly as it pertains to social issues. As the proposed law moves to parliament, it will draw considerable attention from activists and foreign governments concerned about human rights, especially relating to the treatment of sexual minorities in Africa. The outcome of this legislative session may not only impact the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Senegal but also reflect on the societal and political climate surrounding these issues in the region.