Politics

Homosexuality remains illegal in half of African countries, laws increasingly strict

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Jun 9, 2026, 04:00 AM UTC · In the digest of 2026-06-09-0400
Homosexuality remains illegal in half of African countries, laws increasingly strict

Homosexuality is criminalized in 31 African nations, with recent years seeing a rise in anti-LGBT legislation. Penalties range from prison to death, though rarely applied, contributing to daily stigmatization and impacting safety and rights.

Homosexuality is currently criminalized in 31 African nations, representing half of the continent's states. Recent years have seen a rise in the adoption of anti-LGBT legislation across the region. Punishments for same-sex relations vary, ranging from multi-year prison sentences to the death penalty. While these severe penalties are infrequently enforced, the tightening legal framework contributes to the daily stigmatization of LGBT+ individuals. This legal environment has significant repercussions for their safety and fundamental rights.

Sources: Le Monde — International

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