Niger Criminalizes Same‑Sex Relationships, Imposing Jail Sentences

Military‑run Niger has adopted a new penal code that, for the first time, criminalises same‑sex relations, imposing sentences of up to 20 years in prison, a legal source said Thursday, citing the official gazette.

Although a taboo topic, same‑sex relations had not previously been criminalised in the Muslim‑majority country, which now joins several other African states that have tightened anti‑LGBTQ legislation.

Under the new law, consensual same‑sex relations will attract a jail term ranging from five to less than ten years, along with a fine.

“Anyone who enters into marriage with a person of the same sex” faces a prison sentence of 10 to 20 years.

The code also sets the same penalty for “any person who manages, directs, operates, finances or participates in clubs, societies, organisations or associations for homosexuals or LGBTQIA+ people.”

The penal code reform began under Niger’s former civilian president Mohamed Bazoum, who was overthrown in a coup in July 2023, amid pressure from Muslim groups and lawmakers.

AFP

The post Niger criminalises same‑sex relations with jail terms appeared first on Vanguard News.