French MEP Manon Aubry, a leading voice for progressive policies in the European Parliament, has sharply criticized Senegal’s intensifying crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals, warning of a systematic campaign of persecution.
The political figure, known for her vocal advocacy of human rights, expressed outrage over recent legal developments in Senegal, where same-sex relationships now carry penalties of up to a decade behind bars. In a widely shared statement, she condemned the homophobic legislation as a blatant violation of fundamental freedoms.
Calls for urgent international response
Manon Aubry’s intervention follows a series of high-profile arrests in Dakar and other regions, where individuals have been charged under laws targeting ‘acts against nature’ and alleged HIV transmission. The politician has urged France to take immediate diplomatic action, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable groups and grant asylum to those fleeing persecution.
Solidarity with detained foreigners
Beyond advocating for local LGBTQ+ communities, Aubry highlighted the case of a French national recently detained under similar charges. She demanded his swift release and reiterated calls for France to extend asylum protections to Senegalese refugees seeking safety abroad. Her stance underscores growing concerns over the erosion of civil liberties in the region.
The escalation of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Senegal has drawn condemnation from global human rights organizations, with critics warning of a dangerous precedent for West Africa.
