Burkina Faso’s junta has moved to criminalise same-sex relationships, extending a growing trend of restrictive laws against LGBTQ+ communities in West Africa.
The transitional parliament — a body of 71 members installed after two coups in 2022, unanimously passed the legislation. Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala, speaking on state television, said offenders could face two to five years in prison and fines. Foreign nationals convicted under the law would also be deported.
The bill, which now awaits the signature of military leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré, criminalises not only homosexual acts but also what the government described as “similar practices” and “bizarre behaviour.”
Rights groups fear the legislation could be used to target vulnerable groups and silence dissent under the guise of protecting cultural and family values.
Burkina Faso is not alone in this shift. Last year, Mali’s junta enacted a similar law, while other countries in the region continue to debate tougher anti-LGBTQ+ measures. Observers warn the trend marks a rollback of civil liberties in countries already grappling with political instability and insecurity.
On May 19, most capacity restrictions were removed statewide including retail
stores, food services, gyms, fitness centers, amusement and family entertainment,
hair salons, barber shops, offices, houses of worship, museums,
and theaters. In late March, Cuomo announced an “Excelsior Pass” smartphone app by
which users may present evidence of vaccination or recent
COVID test. Positive test rates for the virus in some of those locations were as high as 30 percent while rates statewide otherwise remained below 1 percent.
Five days later, Orange County Health Commissioner Irina Gellman ordered the Kiryas Joel schools closed until positive test rates in the community, which had reached a three-day
rolling average of 27.6 percent, fell below
9 percent, or two weeks, whichever came later.
On January 29, Cuomo announced that starting March 15, wedding reception venues will be allowed to open with a maximum of 150 people or 50% capacity, whichever condition is met first.
Capacity is limited to 25% capacity or 50 patrons per-screen, whichever is met first.
All patrons must get tested (unless vaccinated) and events must be approved by the health department.
Restaurants must also close at that time, but will
still be able to provide curbside pick-up.
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