Burkina Faso Junta Introduces Draft Legislation to Outlaw Homosexuality

Burkina Faso’s military junta has approved a revised family code that criminalizes homosexuality, aligning with only 22 out of 54 countries permitting same-sex relationships. This change could result in severe penalties, including death or lengthy imprisonment in certain regions.

Under military rule following two coups in 2022, Burkina Faso is in a confederation with Mali and Niger. The junta, led by interim military leader Ibrahim Traore, endorsed the amended code in a weekly council of ministers.

The law awaits a parliamentary vote and final approval by Traore. The past year has seen increased restrictions on LGBTQ rights in Africa, exemplified by Uganda enacting stringent anti-LGBTQ laws and Ghana passing legislation to heighten suppression of LGBTQ individuals.