French national detained in Senegal over homosexuality amid legal crackdown

French authorities are closely monitoring the situation of a French national recently arrested in Senegal under charges related to homosexuality, as confirmed by diplomatic sources. The individual was taken into custody on February 14, 2026, following a broader wave of arrests targeting alleged acts against nature, criminal association, money laundering, and even accusations of attempted HIV transmission.

The Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs has been in direct contact with the detainee’s family, while the French consulate in Dakar has conducted four consular visits to ensure the individual’s well-being and legal protection. Diplomatic channels remain actively engaged to safeguard the rights of the arrested French citizen.

Senegal’s tightened anti-LGBTQ+ laws spark international concern

On March 31, 2026, Senegal enacted a stringent law further criminalizing homosexuality, doubling the penalties for acts against nature. Under the new legislation, individuals suspected of same-sex relations now face imprisonment ranging from five to ten years, alongside fines between €3,000 and €15,000. The bill, spearheaded by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, was introduced to formally define and penalize same-sex acts, which previously lacked a clear legal framework.

Ousmane Sonko, addressing the nation on February 25, 2026, stated, “Any sexual or sexually suggestive act between two people of the same gender constitutes an act against nature. We are now defining it, as there was previously no clear definition.”

global outcry over human rights violations

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, condemned the legislation as “deeply alarming” and a “violation of fundamental human rights.” In response, France reiterated its unwavering commitment to universal human rights, emphasizing the need to decriminalize homosexuality worldwide and protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

French diplomatic sources confirmed that the country stands in full solidarity with those affected by the new law, particularly vulnerable individuals whose safety and rights are now at heightened risk. The statement underscored France’s long-standing advocacy for the global decriminalization of homosexuality and the defense of LGBTQ+ rights.