Niger criminalizes homosexuality with up to 20 years in prison

Niger has enacted a new penal code that criminalizes homosexuality for the first time, imposing prison sentences of up to 20 years. The law was passed on Thursday, May 11, under the previous civilian government of President Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted in a military coup in 2023. The legislation marks a significant shift in Niger's legal stance on LGBTQ+ rights, aligning the country with other conservative nations in the region. Human rights groups have condemned the move, citing concerns over increased persecution and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. The law's passage reflects broader societal and political trends in West Africa, where several countries have recently tightened anti-LGBTQ+ laws. The military junta that now controls Niger has not indicated any plans to reverse the legislation.

Global Impact

This law has significant political and social implications. Politically, it aligns Niger with other conservative African nations like Uganda and Ghana, potentially deepening ties with Russia and China while straining relations with Western democracies that prioritize human rights.