Omanghana
Human Rights Watch has called on Senegal to halt its crackdown on LGBTQ+ people, warning that arrests, forced HIV testing and difficulties obtaining legal representation are undermining rights and access to healthcare.
In findings released on Monday, October 12, 2026, HRW said fear of detention and stigma was driving people into hiding and discouraging HIV testing and treatment.
The organization cited RADDHO’s estimate of at least 212 arrests between February and July. The HIV Justice Network put the figure above 300, although HRW said it could not independently verify the total.
The crackdown follows amendments adopted on March 11 that doubled the maximum prison sentence for consensual same-sex conduct to 10 years and criminalized certain forms of advocacy and support.
HRW also reported that 82 detainees faced HIV-transmission charges, which a court dismissed in August. Lawyers interviewed described fears that representing defendants could expose them to repercussions.
The organization said Senegalese authorities had not responded to questions submitted on September 29. It urged an end to abuses ahead of the Youth Olympic Games, scheduled for October 31 to November 13, citing the Olympic Charter’s commitments to nondiscrimination and human dignity.
Source: Omanghana
