According to HJN monitoring data, since early February authorities in Senegal have arrested at least 54 individuals on allegations of “acts against nature” and “voluntary HIV transmission”. Newspapers’ reports indicate that the people arrested were subjected to forced HIV testing and personal information, such as their HIV-status and names, was subsequently reported in the media.

At the same time, the Senegalese government has approved a draft amendment to the Penal Code that increases penalties related to same-sex conduct and extends criminal liability to forms of advocacy and financial support perceived as supporting LGBT people. The bill will now follow the ordinary legislative procedure.

A detailed chronology of arrests since 4 February is set out below, with identifying information removed.