A French national has been held in Senegal since February 14, 2026, facing charges that include “unnatural acts,” as revealed by a diplomatic source to Agence France-Presse (AFP). This incident aligns with the Senegalese government’s recent initiatives to enforce stricter laws against homosexual activities.
Arrest Amid Intensified Crackdown
The French citizen was taken into custody during a large-scale operation on February 14, according to the AFP’s diplomatic source. The allegations against him encompass “unnatural acts,” criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and an alleged attempt to transmit HIV. French media such as BFM-TV and Franceinfo initially reported the incident. According to Franceinfo, the individual is an engineer in his thirties living in Dakar.
France Provides Consular Assistance
The French government is actively following the situation. The French consulate in Dakar has visited the detained individual four times to ensure consular protection. Authorities in Paris, particularly the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, maintain regular communication with the family of the accused.
New Legislation Increasing Penalties for Homosexuality
Senegal, a country with a predominantly Muslim population, enacted laws in early March that increase the penalties for homosexual acts, which can now result in five to ten years of imprisonment. This legislation was signed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on March 31.
The change in legislation is occurring amidst a backdrop of escalating homophobic rhetoric and actions, leading to multiple arrests related to alleged homosexuality. In Senegal, same-sex relationships are widely regarded as clashing with societal and religious norms. The current administration had pledged to strengthen these crackdowns.
France’s Diplomatic Position
The French government has reiterated its dedication to upholding fundamental rights and supports the global decriminalization of homosexuality. A French diplomatic source emphasized France’s ongoing efforts to combat discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity while advocating for LGBT+ rights.
