Content overview: “Senegal LGBTQ+ Crackdown: Hundreds Arrested, Forced HIV Tests Reported by HRW”. Senegal has intensified its crackdown on LGBTQ+ people, with at least 320 individuals arrested and detained since February under the country's toughened law criminalizing homosexuality, according to a new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The report, which cites data from the HIV Justice Network, highlights mass arrests for 'acts against nature' and alarming practices including forced HIV testing. At least 84 of those detained have been charged with 'voluntary HIV transmission' based solely on their HIV status, a charge that rights groups say is discriminatory and lacks legal basis.
The crackdown has driven many LGBTQ+ Senegalese into hiding, fearing arrest, violence, and social ostracism. HRW also documents barriers to legal representation, with lawyers reportedly reluctant to take on cases due to stigma or fear of reprisals. This listing links straight to the original page, where the content is available in full.