A French national held in Senegal over homosexuality as diplomatic pressure mounts
The French government is closely monitoring the case of a French national recently detained in Senegal for alleged homosexuality, according to diplomatic sources. The arrest, which took place in Dakar on February 14, 2026, involves additional charges including conspiracy, money laundering, and attempted transmission of HIV during a broader crackdown on LGBTQ+ activities.
Diplomatic channels confirm that the French consulate in Dakar has made four consular visits to the detainee since the arrest, ensuring basic consular rights are respected. The Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs maintains constant contact with the individual’s family to provide support during this ordeal.
Senegal’s new anti-LGBTQ+ law fuels legal crackdown
On March 31, Senegal enacted a sweeping new law that drastically increases penalties for homosexuality. Previously categorized under vague “acts against nature,” same-sex relations now carry sentences of five to ten years imprisonment and fines ranging from €3,000 to €15,000. The legislation was spearheaded by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who justified the move by stating, “Any sexual act between individuals of the same sex constitutes an unnatural act. We must define it clearly, as there was previously no legal definition.”
Human rights advocates have condemned the law as a severe violation of fundamental freedoms. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, labeled the measure as “deeply concerning” and a blatant disregard for human dignity. In response, France reiterated its unwavering commitment to universal human rights, emphasizing its opposition to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“The French government stands firmly against this legal regression and reaffirms its support for LGBTQ+ individuals whose rights are under threat,” a diplomatic spokesperson stated. “We call for the immediate release of all individuals detained under discriminatory laws and urge Senegal to align its legislation with international human rights standards.”
Diplomatic response and ongoing advocacy
The French government has expressed its full solidarity with the detained individual and others affected by the new law. Diplomatic efforts are underway to ensure fair treatment and to urge Senegalese authorities to reconsider the application of this legislation, which has already led to dozens of arrests reported in local media since its implementation.
This case underscores the growing tensions between Senegal’s conservative legal framework and international human rights expectations, raising concerns about the safety and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the country.