The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 13, have been marred by controversy over Senegal's approach to diversity and inclusivity. The event will feature nearly 3,000 athletes aged 17 and under in 25 sports. However, human rights groups have expressed concerns that the government's stance on LGBT issues contradicts the principles of the Olympic movement.
In March, Senegal's parliament amended article 319 of the penal code, doubling the maximum penalty for consensual same-sex conduct from five to 10 years in prison. The amendment also criminalized the promotion of, or support for, LGBT people and organizations. This move has led to a nationwide crackdown on LGBT individuals, with dozens arrested on suspicion of same-sex relations.
At least 71 men were referred to trial in August for “acts against nature”, a term used to describe same-sex relations. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported that fear of arrest and stigma drives people into hiding and away from HIV testing and treatment. The organization has also noted that lawyers are hesitant to represent LGBT individuals due to the stigma associated with it.
HRW's LGBT rights researcher, Larissa Kojoue, stated that the ongoing government crackdown on LGBT people raises serious concerns about Senegal's compliance with international law and the Olympic Charter. The charter prohibits discrimination on any grounds and commits host countries to respect human rights and dignity. Kojoue added that LGBT people are being forced to curb their normal activities and keep from exercising their rights for fear of arrest and increased stigma.
HRW has called on President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to refer the amended penal code to the country's Constitutional Council to examine its compatibility with guarantees of the right to privacy, equality before the law, and non-discrimination. The organization also wants Faye to publicly state that all participants, visitors, and residents will be protected from discrimination and arbitrary arrest.
The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, ratified by Senegal in 1982, guarantees the right to a fair trial, equal protection before the law, and non-discrimination. The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights has urged governments to protect people from violence based on their sexual orientation and gender identity.
As the Games approach, organizers are focused on filling the venues, with 800,000 tickets available. However, the controversy surrounding Senegal's LGBT policies has overshadowed the event.
Key points
- Human rights groups urge Senegal to stop LGBT crackdown ahead of Youth Olympic Games
- Senegal's parliament amended article 319 of the penal code, doubling the maximum penalty for consensual same-sex conduct
- HRW calls on President Faye to refer amended penal code to Constitutional Council
