The Senegalese National Assembly's Intercommission convened on September 24, 2026, to examine the proposal for a law (n°39/2026) aimed at ensuring access to healthcare and dignity for individuals detained in the country. This proposal, presented by deputies and supported by the government, seeks to establish a legal framework that guarantees access to care, dignity, and non-discrimination for detainees, aligning with Senegal's international commitments. The commission's report, released on September 30, 2026, highlights the discussions and amendments adopted before the unanimous adoption of the proposal by the commissioners.
The proposed law introduces key principles, including the continuity of care and the independence of medical personnel in prison settings. An joint decree by the Ministers of Justice and Health is expected to facilitate the implementation of articles 4 and 9 of the law. To finance the public charges associated with this law, an additional contribution of 0.2% on excise duties is proposed, as per article 82 of the Constitution. This proposal aligns with international standards, referencing the United Nations Minimum Rules (Mandela Rules) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.
The report emphasizes the importance of creating a device for collecting health data and extending screening campaigns to detainees. These measures aim to improve the health and well-being of prisoners, addressing a critical aspect of their detention conditions. The commissioners' recommendations reflect a comprehensive approach to healthcare in prisons, considering both the medical and human rights aspects.
The examined proposal is part of a series of legislative and regulatory efforts in Senegal aimed at enhancing various aspects of public life. Similar documents, such as the draft law on the modification of the biometric identity card for ECOWAS (n°21/2026) and the report on the project of law n°25/2026 concerning the protection of critical information infrastructures and digital security, demonstrate the government's ongoing legislative agenda.
The National Assembly's consideration of this proposal underscores the government's commitment to improving detention conditions and upholding human rights in Senegal. By focusing on healthcare in prisons, the authorities aim to address a critical issue that affects not only detainees but also the broader prison system.
Key stakeholders, including human rights organizations and healthcare professionals, are likely to welcome this development. They have long advocated for improved conditions and healthcare services in Senegal's prisons. The implementation of this law, once passed, will be closely monitored to assess its impact on the ground.
The adoption of this proposal marks a significant step towards enhancing the rights and well-being of detainees in Senegal. With its emphasis on healthcare, dignity, and non-discrimination, the law aligns with international best practices and Senegal's commitments to human rights.
Key points
- The proposal introduces the principle of continuity of care and independence of medical personnel in prisons.
- An additional 0.2% contribution on excise duties is proposed to finance public charges related to the law.
- The law aims to align with international standards, referencing the Mandela Rules and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.
