French engineer held in Senegal for homosexuality as anti-LGBTQ+ crackdown intensifies

A French national has been in detention in Senegal for three months following an arrest tied to homosexuality, sparking diplomatic concern in Paris. The man, a 30-year-old engineer residing in Dakar, was taken into custody on February 14, 2026, and faces multiple charges including “unnatural acts,” criminal association, money laundering, and attempted HIV transmission.

His arrest occurred amid a broader wave of anti-LGBTQ+ arrests in Senegal, where a newly enacted law—passed in early March and signed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye on March 31—now imposes prison sentences of five to ten years for same-sex relationships. The legislation has deepened concerns over human rights protections in the predominantly Muslim nation.

The French government has emphasized its commitment to universal human rights, stating that it “remains firmly attached to the respect of human rights in their universality and indivisibility,” while advocating for the global decriminalization of homosexuality and the protection of LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Diplomatic intervention and consular support

French diplomatic missions in Senegal have closely monitored the case, with consular officials conducting multiple visits to ensure the detainee’s welfare. The Quai d’Orsay in Paris has maintained regular contact with the man’s family throughout the ordeal, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

This case reflects a troubling trend in Senegal, where same-sex relationships have long been criminalized and are now subject to even harsher penalties. The new law has fueled a climate of homophobia, with a surge in arrests targeting individuals presumed to be gay or advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.

International observers and human rights advocates have condemned the legislative shift, warning that it contravenes fundamental freedoms and sets back progress on equality and inclusivity in the region.

Context: rising homophobia and political motivations

The crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in Senegal coincides with a broader surge in homophobic sentiment, fueled in part by political rhetoric. Authorities have framed the repression of homosexuality as a moral imperative aligned with religious and cultural values, a stance that has resonated with segments of the electorate.

Critics argue, however, that the new law is a politically expedient move, designed to appeal to conservative voters while diverting attention from other pressing social and economic challenges. The timing of the legislation—amid a wave of arrests—has raised concerns about selective enforcement and its impact on civil liberties.

As Senegal grapples with these developments, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for justice, due process, and the protection of fundamental rights for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation.