71 men arrested in Senegal on gay sex charges
The country's anti-gay purge continues.
Continuing the state-sanctioned persecution of queer people, it's been announced by the office of the public prosecutor in Senegal that 71 men have been arrested and charged with “unnatural acts”. An additional 28 men who had been detained during the operation were released without charge.
Having passed legislation to increase the penalties for men convicted of having gay sex, the latest wave of arrests are part of a continuing campaign by the government to demonstrate it's anti-gay credentials.
It seems that the government - supported by religious leaders - is using repression of homosexuality as a diversion at a time when social discontent is rising, fuelled by a deep economic slump and unmet promises of ambitious reforms.
What's life like for LGBTQ people in Senegal?
What's life like for LGBTQ people in Senegal? Let's take a look at some of the key equality indicators.
Is homosexuality legal in Senegal?
No. Same-sex sexual activity is illegal. It can be punished by imprisonment of up to ten years.
Are there anti-discrimination protections in place for LGBTQ people in Senegal?
No. There are no protections against discrimination on the grounds of sexuality.
Is there Marriage Equality in Senegal?
No. There is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.
What’s life like for LGBTQ people in Senegal?
Senegal is a socially conservative country. Homophobia is systemic.
LGBTQ people conceal their sexuality.
There are numerous examples of LGBTQ people being persecuted and harassed.
HIV status is frequently being linked to suspicions regarding sexuality, resulting in lower testing rates across the country.
