Burkina Faso Criminalizes LGBTQ Practices

Burkina Faso’s transitional parliament has passed a law criminalizing behavior deemed to promote LGBTQ practices, introducing prison terms, fines, and possible deportation, Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala announced this week.

The legislation, part of an overhaul of the Persons and Family Code, also includes stricter regulations on nationality and the legal status of stateless individuals. It makes Burkina Faso the latest African country to pass anti-LGBTQ laws, following similar measures in nations such as Uganda and Senegal.

“The law provides for a prison sentence ranging from two to five years and a fine,” Bayala said on state television Monday night. “A person who engages in homosexual practices will appear before a judge, and in the event of a repeat offence, be deported if not a Burkinabe national.”

The law was unanimously approved by the country’s 71-member transitional parliament, which was installed by the military junta following the 2022 coup. It now awaits the signature of junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

Authorities say the law aims to modernize family legislation and clarify nationality provisions. However, rights groups are likely to criticize the measures for restricting LGBTQ rights and limiting legal avenues in nationality disputes.

Burkina Faso has faced mounting insecurity due to Islamist militant violence, and the ruling military has shown increasing intolerance of dissent. The new law adds to growing concerns about human rights under military rule.

While several African countries maintain laws criminalizing same-sex relationships, others—including South Africa, Botswana, and Angola—have taken steps to decriminalize LGBTQ practices and expand legal protections.