Key Facts
• Burkina Faso passed a law criminalizing homosexuality under military rule.
• Offenders face 2–5 years imprisonment and fines, as per Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala.
• Foreign nationals violating the law will be deported.
• The law was unanimously approved by 71 unelected members of the interim parliament.
• Homosexuality was not illegal in Burkina Faso until the military seized power in 2022.
• Approximately 30 African countries currently criminalize homosexuality.
• Mali, an ally of Burkina Faso, passed a similar law in November 2024.
• Ghana and Uganda have recently tightened anti-homosexuality laws, drawing international criticism.
• Uganda’s law includes the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” and life imprisonment for consensual same-sex acts.
Summary
Burkina Faso’s military-led government has enacted a law criminalizing homosexuality, imposing 2–5 years imprisonment and fines for offenders. Foreign nationals found guilty will face deportation. The law, passed unanimously by the interim parliament, marks a significant shift, as homosexuality was not illegal before the military’s rise to power in 2022. This move aligns Burkina Faso with approximately 30 African nations where homosexuality is outlawed. Neighboring Mali enacted a similar law in 2024, while Ghana and Uganda have recently intensified anti-homosexuality measures, sparking global criticism. Uganda’s legislation includes severe penalties, such as the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality” and life imprisonment for consensual same-sex acts.
