Burkina Faso: Military Junta Approves Revised Family Code Criminalizing Homosexuality

In a recent development, the military junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré in Burkina Faso has approved a revised family code that criminalizes homosexuality. This move makes Burkina Faso one of the 22 African countries out of 54 that do not allow same-sex relationships, with severe penalties including death or long prison sentences in some regions.

According to a statement from the presidency, the council has approved a decree for a new Personal and Family Code (CPF) that enshrines the ban on homosexuality in the country. Minister of Justice Edasso Rodrigue Bayala emphasized that "from now on, homosexuality and related practices are prohibited and punishable by law."

While the specific penalties outlined in the new code are still unclear, and the text is yet to be approved by the deputies of the Transitional Legislative Assembly, Burkina Faso may soon join the ranks of Uganda, which enacted one of the harshest anti-LGBTQ laws globally in May last year.

This decision has sparked concern among human rights organizations and the international community, who argue that criminalizing homosexuality is a violation of basic human rights and fundamental freedoms. The revised family code is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of LGBTQ individuals in Burkina Faso, who may now face increased persecution and discrimination.

Additional sources: Other agencies