rights
Niger recriminalizes homosexuality
By Michael K. Lavers at Washington Blade
· June 15, 2026
· 1 min read
Niger is the latest African country to recriminalize consensual same-sex sexual relations. The Associated Press on June 12 reported the country’s military junta announced a new penal code under which anyone who “commits or attempts to commit an immodest or unnatural act or practices lesbian, gay, bi
Why this matters
The recriminalization of homosexuality in Niger marks a concerning trend in West Africa, where several countries have recently taken steps to restrict LGBTQ+ rights. The new penal code in Niger not only imposes harsh penalties on individuals who engage in same-sex relations, but also targets those who facilitate or support such relationships, including witnesses and organizers of same-sex weddings. This development is particularly notable given that homosexuality was not previously criminalized in Niger, suggesting a shift towards increased repression of LGBTQ+ individuals. The move is likely to exacerbate existing anti-LGBTQ stigma in the country, and may have regional implications, given Niger's borders with several countries that have also implemented or proposed restrictive laws. As the situation continues to unfold, it will be important to monitor the impact on LGBTQ+ communities in Niger and the broader region, and to support national and international efforts to promote equality and protect human rights.
About this story
Original reporting by Washington Blade . LGBTQ News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: rights ·
Published: June 15, 2026 ·
Source: Washington Blade ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Niger is the latest African country to recriminalize consensual same-sex sexual relations. The Associated Press on June 12 reported the country’s military junta announced a new penal code under which anyone who “commits or attempts to commit an immodest or unnatural act or practices lesbian, gay, bi
When was this published? This article was first published on June 15, 2026 by Washington Blade and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Michael K. Lavers at Washington Blade. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more rights coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .