A French engineer, approximately thirty years old, has been held in detention since February 14. He faces accusations including « unnatural acts » and « attempted HIV transmission. » This arrest comes as Senegal has recently intensified penalties for homosexual relations.
A French citizen remains incarcerated in Senegal following his arrest on February 14, primarily on charges of « unnatural acts ». This detention unfolds in a nation that has recently implemented harsher sentences for homosexual relationships.
The individual, an engineer in his thirties residing in Dakar, was apprehended on February 14, 2026. The charges against him include « unnatural acts, » « criminal association, » « money laundering, » and « attempted HIV transmission, » occurring amidst a broader series of arrests.
Our embassy in Dakar is closely monitoring the welfare of our fellow citizen. Consular officials have made four visits to him, ensuring appropriate protection, and maintaining regular contact with his family.
Wave of arrests targeting alleged homosexuality
Senegal, a nation with a Muslim majority, enacted a new law in early March, which now stipulates prison sentences ranging from five to ten years for homosexual relations. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye officially promulgated this legislation on March 31.
This legislative action coincides with a surge of homophobia across the country and a pattern of arrests based on suspected homosexuality. Same-sex relationships are widely viewed as a deviance in Senegal, and the increased severity of their suppression has been a consistent political pledge by the ruling administration.
France reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the universality and indivisibility of human rights. We advocate for the global decriminalization of homosexuality, champion the rights of LGBT+ individuals, and actively combat discrimination rooted in sexual orientation and gender identity.
