A French national faces detention in Senegal over homosexuality as LGBTQ+ rights come under fire

Senegal has tightened its stance on LGBTQ+ rights with a new law passed earlier this month, introducing prison sentences of five to ten years for homosexual relations. The move comes amid a broader crackdown in the West African nation, where a French engineer has been held in custody for over three months on charges related to his sexual orientation.

Legal troubles and diplomatic intervention

A 30-year-old French national, residing in Dakar and working as an engineer, was arrested on February 14 on charges including “unnatural acts,” conspiracy to commit a crime, money laundering, and attempted transmission of HIV. These allegations emerged during a sweeping wave of arrests targeting individuals suspected of homosexuality.

The French Embassy in Dakar has been closely monitoring the situation, conducting four consular visits to the detainee and maintaining regular contact with his family. Meanwhile, authorities in Paris have reiterated their commitment to advocating for human rights and the decriminalization of homosexuality worldwide.

Escalating homophobia in Senegal

The recent legal changes in Senegal reflect a growing intolerance toward LGBTQ+ individuals. The new legislation, signed into law on March 31 by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, underscores the government’s firm stance against same-sex relationships, which are widely condemned in the predominantly Muslim country.

Human rights advocates warn that the enforcement of this law could lead to further persecution, as evidenced by the recent arrests. The political climate in Senegal has long favored stringent measures against homosexuality, positioning the issue as a rallying point for conservative factions.

International response to the crisis

France has publicly affirmed its dedication to universal human rights, emphasizing the importance of protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. The French government’s stance aligns with global calls for the decriminalization of homosexuality, a cause it has championed in international forums.

As Senegal’s legal landscape evolves, the plight of the detained French engineer highlights the broader challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities in the region. Diplomatic efforts continue to ensure fair treatment and due process for those affected by the new law.