In The Gambia, members of the National Assembly have officially voted to increase the punishment for homosexual acts, raising the minimum sentence to five years of imprisonment. This decision was made during the consideration stage of the Criminal Offences Bill 2020 which is part of broader legal reforms being undertaken in the country.
The move to increase penalties for same-sex offenses reflects ongoing debates in The Gambia regarding the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. Homosexuality has long been a contentious issue in the country, with strong cultural and religious opposition. The country’s laws have historically criminalized homosexual acts, and this latest decision intensifies the legal repercussions.
Prior to this bill, penalties for same-sex acts were already severe, but the decision to establish a minimum of five years for these offenses marks a significant escalation. The new law also reflects the influence of conservative voices within Gambian society who continue to view homosexuality as incompatible with local cultural and religious values.
Human rights organizations have criticized these developments, arguing that they exacerbate the marginalization of the LGBTQ+ community in The Gambia. International advocacy groups often highlight such laws as contributing to discrimination, persecution, and human rights violations. However, supporters of the legislation argue that it reflects the will of the people, with many Gambians holding traditional views on sexuality and gender identity.
