Key facts
- Over 320 individuals arrested in Senegal since February on charges related to "acts against nature."
- At least 84 individuals charged with "voluntary HIV transmission" based on HIV status.
- Maximum prison term for consensual same-sex relations doubled to 10 years.
- New law imposes up to seven years in prison for promoting homosexuality.
LGBTQ+ people in Senegal are reportedly going into hiding and facing increased stigma due to an escalating crackdown, according to a Human Rights Watch report. Since February, over 320 individuals have been arrested on allegations of "acts against nature," with at least 84 charged with "voluntary HIV transmission" based on their HIV status alone. This intensified crackdown follows amendments to the penal code in March, which doubled the maximum prison term for consensual same-sex relations to 10 years and introduced penalties for promoting homosexuality. Lawyers are reportedly hesitant to represent accused individuals for fear of prosecution, and doctors have noted a reluctance among people to seek HIV testing and treatment, potentially harming the country's HIV response. Police have also allegedly breached confidentiality by leaking personal information, including HIV status, to the media, exposing individuals to social stigma and violence. The report highlights that these actions contravene domestic and international laws guaranteeing fair trial, privacy, and non-discrimination.