Niger has taken an unprecedented step in its legislation by adopting a new Penal Code on Thursday that criminalises same-sex relations for the first time. The text formalises heavy prison sentences and financial penalties targeting sexual minorities.
The new legal framework now provides for a prison sentence of five to ten years, alongside a fine of up to 100 million CFA Francs ($164 000), for anyone found guilty of engaging or attempting to engage in sexual relations with a person of the same sex. The sanctions become even harsher in the event of an official union, with individuals contracting a marriage with a partner of the same sex facing between ten and twenty years of imprisonment.
With these provisions coming into force, Niger joins several West African states that have recently tightened or toughened their legislative arsenal regarding LGBT+ people.
–ChannelAfrica–
