In a recent legislative move, Senegal’s lawmakers have voted to approve a bill that significantly intensifies penalties for homosexual acts, effectively doubling the maximum prison sentence from five to ten years. This approval comes following a unanimous vote of 135 in favor, with no opposition and three abstentions. The bill aligns with the government’s stated commitment to uphold conservative values, as pledged during the 2024 election campaign led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.

The existing Senegalese penal code, which has not been revised since 1966, already imposes stringent penalties on what is termed as "unnatural acts". Advocates for the newly approved bill argued that the previous law was overly vague and deemed it necessary to impose harsher regulations on homosexuality in order to reinforce societal norms. The new legislative change reflects ongoing tensions within Senegalese society regarding LGBTQ+ rights, showcasing the government's intention to align its policies with traditional views held by many of its constituents.

This tightening of laws against homosexuality in Senegal can have significant consequences for the LGBTQ+ community, as it may foster more discrimination and violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation. Furthermore, this legislative trend may attract international scrutiny and condemnation, considering the increasing global advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Observers warn that the legislative environment in Senegal suggests a concerning approach towards human rights, especially for marginalized groups.