A French national in his early 30s has been arrested in Dakar as part of a broader crackdown on homosexuality in the Senegal.

The Senegalese authorities have charged him with “unnatural acts, criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and attempted HIV transmission”. Reports indicate he works as an engineer and has been living in the country for some time.

Diplomatic response from France

France’s embassy in Dakar is closely monitoring the case, with consular officials visiting the detainee four times to ensure his rights are protected. Diplomatic communication remains active between Paris and Dakar, including with the detained man’s family and the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

Tougher penalties for LGBTQ+ rights

Earlier this year, Senegal passed legislation increasing prison sentences for homosexual relations to up to ten years. The move has intensified debates around LGBTQ+ rights in the region, prompting Paris to reaffirm its stance against discrimination and in favor of global decriminalization of same-sex relations.