Burkina Faso’s military government has enacted a new law criminalizing homosexuality, marking a significant shift in the nation’s legal landscape. The legislation, which was unanimously passed by an unelected transitional parliament, imposes prison sentences of two to five years and hefty fines for same-sex acts. Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala confirmed that offenders will face prosecution, while foreign nationals will face deportation. The measure is part of broader family and citizenship reforms, and officials plan a nationwide campaign to promote the reforms. Burkina Faso now joins regional allies like Mali, Ghana, and Uganda in tightening anti-LGBTQ+ laws, despite mounting international criticism and growing concern over human rights in Africa.
Le Monde
