Burkina Faso Bans Homosexuality, Introduces Prison Sentences

Ouagadougou – Burkina Faso’s transitional government has officially criminalized homosexuality, passing a new law that prescribes prison terms of two to five years for offenders.

The law was unanimously approved on Monday by the 71 unelected members of the transitional assembly, which has been in place since the military seized power under President Ibrahim Traoré following two coups in 2022.

Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala announced the development on state broadcaster RTB, stating that those found guilty will not only serve prison time but also face monetary fines.

The legislation marks a sharp shift in Burkina Faso’s legal framework, where same-sex relations were previously not explicitly outlawed. The move places the country among a growing list of African nations tightening restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights.

Rights organizations are expected to raise concerns about the law, warning of heightened risks of discrimination and persecution against LGBTQ+ communities.

The government, however, has framed the legislation as a measure to “preserve societal values,” echoing similar arguments made in other African states that have recently introduced strict anti-LGBTQ+ laws.

Burkina Faso’s adoption of this ban comes amid ongoing political transition and security challenges in the West African nation, which continues to grapple with militant violence and instability since the military takeover.