LGBTQ+ people go into hiding in Senegal as hundreds are arrested
Senegal has launched a severe crackdown on the LGBTQ+ community, resulting in over 320 arrests following the passage of stricter anti-homosexuality laws. Human Rights Watch reports that detainees face forced HIV testing and limited access to legal counsel.
Why it matters
This represents a significant escalation in human rights violations and state-sanctioned discrimination against marginalized groups in West Africa.
HRW said arrests had been made based on information found on phones, third-party allegations or raids on private premises, while lawyers fear representing those detained. Photograph: AP HRW said arrests had been made based on information found on phones, third-party allegations or raids on private premises, while lawyers fear representing those detained. Photograph: AP Global development LGBTQ+ people go into hiding in Senegal as hundreds are arrested At least 320 people detained for ‘acts against nature’ after law criminalising homosexuality toughened, HRW reports
About this content Sarah Johnson Thu 15 Oct 2026 09.00 BST Last modified on Thu 15 Oct 2026 09.02 BST Share Prefer the Guardian on Google Mass arrests, forced HIV testing and barriers to legal representation are part of an escalating crackdown against LGBTQ+ people in Senegal, according to a new report .
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