LGBTQ community fears crackdown after Burkina Faso law
Members of Burkina Faso’s LGBTQ community say a new law criminalising same-sex relationships has pushed them further into hiding, raising fears of a “witch hunt.” The legislation, adopted this month by the country’s ruling junta, introduces penalties of up to five years in prison and fines for those convicted of “homosexual practices.” It is part of a new family code but has not yet come into effect. Quentin, a young gay man whose name has been changed for safety, told AFP the law could embolden people to target LGBTQ individuals.“With this law, there will be no more respite. People will feel it’s their mission to track down gay people,” he said. Other community members echoed these concerns, warning that the law could fuel public hostility. Before the legislation, many LGBTQ people already hid their identities to avoid stigma and family […]
