Burkina Faso has criminalised homosexuality
New law punishes gay sex with five years in prison.
Burkina Faso is controlled by a military junta.
While the system of government being implemented by the junta is a bit confusing, there is a parliament in place - the members of which are unelected.
Reporting indicates that the junta had announced a ban on gay sex in 2024 but a law now passed by the parliament appears to have codified that ban in legislation.
The new law criminalises homosexuality and penalises gay sex with five years in prison.
“The law provides for a prison sentence of between two and five years as well as fines...” said Edasso Rodrigue Bayala - the justice minister of Burkina Faso, speaking to reporters. “If a person is a perpetrator of homosexual or similar practices, all the bizarre behaviour, they will go before the judge.”
Under the provisions of the law, foreign nationals who are charged with having gay sex will be deported.
According to reporting from Burkina Faso, the new law is part of a wider reform being undertaken of the legislative framework that covers family and citizenship. It's understood that the ruling junta will launch a public awareness campaign to support the reforms.
What's life like for LGBTQ people in Burkina Faso?
What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Burkina Faso? Let’s take a look at some of the key equality indicators.
Is homosexuality legal in Burkina Faso?
Historically, same-sex sexual activity wasn't criminalised in Burkina Faso.
In 2024, the ruling authorities enacted a ban on gay sex. This now seems to have been strengthened with the criminalisation of homosexuality and the introduction of prison terms as punishment.
Are there anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Burkina Faso?
No, there are no anti-discrimination provisions that protect LGBTQ people from discrimination on the basis of sexuality.
Is there Marriage Equality in Burkina Faso?
No, there is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.
In addition, the constitution of Burkina Faso explicitly defines marriage as being between a man and a woman – restricting marriage to opposite-sex couples.
What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Burkina Faso?
Burkina Faso is a socially conservative country and homosexuality is generally seen as a taboo subject.
Most people are forced to conceal their sexuality.
Homophobia is systemic, and LGBTQ people are subjected to harassment and abuse.
