Burkina Faso’s unelected transitional parliament has unanimously passed a bill banning homosexual acts, imposing punishments of up to five years in jail and fines.
The new law, which still requires the signature of military leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré, also mandates the deportation of foreign nationals found guilty of engaging in same-sex relationships.
This move is part of a broader trend of crackdowns on LGBT relationships across Africa, with countries like Mali, Uganda, and Nigeria already enforcing strict laws against homosexuality.
Burkina Faso’s decision has sparked debate, with some critics arguing it undermines human rights, while others see it as a reflection of the country’s socially conservative and religious values, with approximately 64% of the population identifying as Muslim and 26% as Christian.
The law’s implications extend beyond national borders, potentially affecting Burkina Faso’s relationships with international organizations and countries that prioritize human rights.
