In a significant and controversial move, Burkina Faso’s transitional parliament has passed a law banning homosexuality, marking the country as the latest in Africa to criminalize same-sex relationships. The legislation, part of the revised Persons and Family Code, imposes severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to five years and fines for individuals found guilty of engaging in homosexual activities. This development, reported by Linda Ikeji’s Blog on September 2, 2025, has sparked widespread debate both within Burkina Faso and internationally, highlighting the complex interplay of cultural, religious, and political dynamics shaping attitudes toward LGBTQ+ rights in Africa. The law, unanimously approved by the unelected 71-member transitional parliament, awaits the signature of military junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who has led the country since a 2022 coup. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the new law, its implications, public reactions, and the broader context of LGBTQ+ rights in Africa, drawing on multiple perspectives to offer a comprehensive analysis.
The New Law and Its Provisions
The Persons and Family Code law, passed on September 1, 2025, explicitly criminalizes homosexuality and “associated practices,” with offenders facing imprisonment ranging from two to five years and unspecified fines. According to Burkina Faso’s Justice Minister, Edasso Rodrigue Bayala, who announced the legislation on state television, the law targets “bizarre behavior” associated with homosexuality, and foreign nationals found guilty will face deportation. The legislation also introduces stricter regulations on nationality and stateless persons, reflecting the military junta’s broader agenda of tightening social and legal controls since seizing power in 2022.
The unanimous passage of the law by the transitional parliament, composed of members appointed by the junta, underscores the lack of democratic oversight in the decision-making process. Unlike many African nations where similar laws have been debated in elected legislatures, Burkina Faso’s current political structure, dominated by the military, has enabled swift and unopposed enactment of the legislation. The law’s immediate effect, as reported by sources such as Al Jazeera and The Independent, places Burkina Faso among the roughly 30 African countries—out of 54—that criminalize same-sex relationships, with penalties ranging from fines and imprisonment to, in extreme cases, the death penalty.
The decision to criminalize homosexuality represents a significant shift for Burkina Faso, which had not previously outlawed same-sex relationships, unlike many of its neighbors. The move aligns with a growing trend in Africa’s “coup belt,” where military-led governments in countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have adopted increasingly conservative social policies, often in defiance of Western influence and international human rights standards.
Context of the Law: Burkina Faso’s Political and Social Landscape
To fully understand the significance of this legislation, it is essential to examine Burkina Faso’s recent political history and social dynamics. Since September 2022, the country has been under the control of a military junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who came to power following a second coup that year. The coups were driven by dissatisfaction with the government’s inability to address escalating jihadist insurgencies, which have killed over 26,000 people since 2015, displaced millions, and destabilized large parts of the country. The junta has promised to restore security but has struggled to contain the violence, leading to growing authoritarianism and intolerance of dissent.
Under Traoré’s leadership, Burkina Faso has shifted away from Western alliances, expelling French troops and aligning more closely with Russia, as evidenced by Traoré’s visit to Moscow in May 2025. This geopolitical realignment has been accompanied by a rejection of Western liberal values, including those related to LGBTQ+ rights, which are often framed as foreign impositions in African political discourse. The ban on homosexuality can thus be seen as part of a broader assertion of national sovereignty and cultural identity, reflecting the junta’s narrative of resisting external influence.
Religiously, Burkina Faso is a diverse country, with approximately 64% of the population identifying as Muslim, 26% as Christian, and 10% adhering to traditional beliefs or no religion. Both Islam and Christianity, as practiced in Burkina Faso, often emphasize conservative social norms, and religious leaders have historically played a significant role in shaping public attitudes toward issues like homosexuality. The junta’s decision to criminalize same-sex relationships aligns with these conservative values, appealing to religious and traditionalist constituencies while reinforcing its authority.
The Broader African Context
Burkina Faso’s new law places it in the company of over 30 African nations that criminalize homosexuality, including Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana, and Mauritania. In Uganda, for instance, the Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 imposes life imprisonment for same-sex acts and the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” drawing global condemnation. Similarly, Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014 prescribes up to 14 years in prison for homosexual acts, while Ghana’s parliament passed a bill in 2024 that punishes not only same-sex relationships but also LGBTQ+ advocacy.
These laws reflect a broader trend across Africa, where cultural and religious conservatism, combined with political narratives of resisting Western imperialism, has fueled anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. In many African countries, homosexuality is portrayed as a foreign or colonial import, incompatible with traditional values. This narrative has been used to justify restrictive laws, often with significant public support. For example, a 2019 Pew Research Center survey found that majorities in several African countries, including Nigeria (91%) and Kenya (83%), believe homosexuality should not be accepted by society.
However, not all African nations have followed this path. South Africa stands out as a notable exception, with its constitution explicitly protecting LGBTQ+ rights and legalizing same-sex marriage in 2006. Countries like Botswana and Angola have also made progress, decriminalizing homosexuality in 2019 and 2021, respectively. These contrasting approaches highlight the diversity of perspectives on LGBTQ+ rights across the continent, shaped by local histories, political systems, and levels of Western influence.
Humanitarian and Social Implications
The criminalization of homosexuality in Burkina Faso is likely to have profound social and humanitarian consequences. For LGBTQ+ individuals, the law creates a climate of fear and persecution, forcing many to conceal their identities or flee the country. Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have warned that such laws often lead to increased violence, discrimination, and social exclusion. In Burkina Faso, where the military junta has already been accused of cracking down on dissent, the law could embolden authorities and vigilante groups to target suspected LGBTQ+ individuals, further eroding human rights.
The law’s provision for deporting foreign nationals found guilty of homosexuality raises additional concerns, particularly for refugees and migrants who may face persecution in their home countries. Burkina Faso hosts thousands of displaced persons due to the ongoing jihadist insurgency, and the new law could exacerbate vulnerabilities for marginalized groups, including those fleeing persecution based on sexual orientation.
Moreover, the legislation is likely to strain Burkina Faso’s relations with international donors and human rights organizations. Western countries, including the United States and members of the European Union, have often tied development aid to human rights conditions, including protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. The junta’s defiance of these standards could lead to reduced aid or sanctions, further complicating efforts to address the country’s security and humanitarian crises.
International Reactions and Criticism
The passage of the anti-homosexuality law has drawn sharp criticism from international human rights groups and media outlets. The International Association of Genocide Scholars, in a resolution passed in August 2025, accused Burkina Faso’s junta of contributing to a broader pattern of human rights abuses, including restrictions on freedom of expression and association. While the resolution primarily focused on the junta’s actions in the context of the jihadist conflict, the new law has added fuel to accusations of authoritarianism.
Western media outlets, such as Al Jazeera, The Independent, and Pink News, have condemned the legislation, framing it as a setback for LGBTQ+ rights in Africa. Al Jazeera reported that the law “puts Burkina Faso in line with over half of Africa’s 54 countries that have laws banning homosexuality,” emphasizing the continent-wide trend of criminalization. Pink News described the move as part of a “crackdown” on same-sex relations, noting that it follows similar legislation in Mali, which adopted an anti-homosexuality law in late 2024.
The United Nations has also expressed concern, with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) urging Burkina Faso to reconsider the law and align its policies with international human rights standards. The OHCHR emphasized that criminalizing consensual same-sex relationships violates the principles of non-discrimination and equality enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
However, the junta’s alignment with Russia and other non-Western powers suggests that it may dismiss such criticism as interference in its sovereignty. Traoré’s public statements, including his April 2025 declaration that “no country has developed under democracy,” indicate a rejection of Western liberal frameworks, including those related to human rights. This stance has resonated with some segments of Burkina Faso’s population, who view the law as a defense of cultural and religious values against foreign influence.
Public Reactions in Burkina Faso and Beyond
Within Burkina Faso, public reactions to the law are likely to be mixed, though limited access to independent media and the junta’s control over information make it difficult to gauge sentiment accurately. The country’s religious demographics suggest that the law may enjoy significant support among conservative Muslim and Christian communities, who often view homosexuality as contrary to their beliefs. The junta’s framing of the legislation as a rejection of “bizarre behavior” aligns with this perspective, appealing to traditionalist sentiments.
On social media platforms like X, reactions from Africans and the diaspora have varied. Some users have expressed support for the law, echoing the junta’s narrative of protecting national values. One X post, quoted on Linda Ikeji’s Blog, stated, “Burkina Faso is standing up for African culture. We don’t need the West telling us how to live.” Others, however, have criticized the law as a step backward, arguing that it distracts from more pressing issues like security and economic development. “Instead of fighting jihadists, they’re fighting love. What a waste of time,” one user wrote.
Internationally, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have mobilized to condemn the law and call for solidarity with Burkina Faso’s queer community. Organizations like OutRight Action International have urged activists to pressure the junta to repeal the legislation and protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of sexual orientation. However, the junta’s crackdown on dissent, including the expulsion of UN officials and arrests of critics, suggests that domestic activism may face significant risks.
The Role of the Military Junta
The passage of the anti-homosexuality law is a clear reflection of the military junta’s broader agenda. Since seizing power, Traoré’s government has prioritized consolidating control, often at the expense of democratic norms and human rights. The expulsion of the UN’s top representative in August 2025, following a report accusing government forces of recruiting children in the jihadist conflict, underscores the junta’s intolerance for external scrutiny. Similarly, the ban on homosexuality can be seen as an attempt to assert cultural and political autonomy, appealing to conservative constituencies while deflecting attention from security failures.
Traoré’s rhetoric, particularly his rejection of democracy as a pathway to development, has resonated with some Africans disillusioned with Western-style governance. His April 2025 statement, reported by Linda Ikeji’s Blog, that “no country has truly developed under a democratic system,” reflects a broader populist narrative that prioritizes strong leadership over liberal values. The anti-homosexuality law aligns with this narrative, positioning the junta as a defender of traditional African identity against perceived Western encroachment.
Implications for Burkina Faso’s Future
The criminalization of homosexuality is likely to have far-reaching implications for Burkina Faso’s social, political, and economic future. Domestically, the law risks deepening divisions in an already polarized society, where ethnic, religious, and regional tensions are exacerbated by the ongoing jihadist insurgency. By targeting a marginalized group, the junta may alienate segments of the population, including younger, urban citizens who are more exposed to global perspectives on human rights.
Economically, the law could deter foreign investment and aid, particularly from Western countries that prioritize LGBTQ+ rights in their development agendas. Burkina Faso, already grappling with a humanitarian crisis that has displaced over two million people, relies heavily on international support to address food insecurity, healthcare, and infrastructure needs. The junta’s defiance of human rights norms could lead to reduced funding, further straining the country’s resources.
Politically, the law reinforces the junta’s authoritarian grip, signaling to both domestic and international audiences that it will not tolerate dissent or deviation from its vision. However, this approach carries risks, as growing repression could fuel unrest and undermine the junta’s legitimacy. The expulsion of UN officials and restrictions on media suggest that the government is increasingly isolated, both domestically and internationally.
The Global Debate on LGBTQ+ Rights in Africa
Burkina Faso’s new law is part of a broader global debate about LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in the Global South. In many African countries, the tension between cultural conservatism and international human rights standards has created a contentious landscape for queer communities. While some argue that criminalizing homosexuality is a legitimate expression of cultural sovereignty, others contend that such laws violate universal principles of equality and dignity.
The influence of Western advocacy has been a double-edged sword. On one hand, it has provided crucial support for LGBTQ+ activists in Africa, amplifying their voices and offering resources to challenge discriminatory laws. On the other hand, it has fueled backlash from governments and communities who perceive such advocacy as neo-colonial interference. In Burkina Faso, the junta’s alignment with Russia, which has its own restrictive laws on homosexuality, suggests a deliberate rejection of Western influence in favor of alternative geopolitical partnerships.
Recommendations for Moving Forward
Addressing the implications of Burkina Faso’s anti-homosexuality law requires a multifaceted approach that balances respect for cultural context with the protection of human rights. First, international organizations and governments should engage with Burkina Faso through dialogue rather than punitive measures, recognizing that sanctions or aid cuts could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis without necessarily advancing LGBTQ+ rights. Diplomatic efforts should focus on encouraging the junta to prioritize security and economic development while gradually addressing human rights concerns.
Second, support for local LGBTQ+ activists should be discreet and strategic, given the risks of persecution under the new law. International NGOs can provide funding, legal assistance, and safe havens for activists, while amplifying their voices through global platforms. Grassroots organizations within Burkina Faso, if they exist, should be empowered to advocate for change in ways that resonate with local communities.
Third, regional bodies like the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) should play a more active role in addressing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. While the AU has historically avoided taking a strong stance on such issues, it could facilitate dialogue among member states to promote inclusive policies that respect both cultural diversity and human rights.
Finally, the international community should invest in education and awareness campaigns to challenge stereotypes and misinformation about homosexuality in Africa. By engaging religious and traditional leaders, these campaigns can foster gradual shifts in public attitudes, creating a more inclusive environment over time.
Conclusion
Burkina Faso’s decision to criminalize homosexuality marks a significant and troubling development in the country’s social and political landscape. The law, passed by an unelected transitional parliament and awaiting the signature of junta leader Ibrahim Traoré, reflects a broader trend of conservative legislation across Africa, driven by cultural, religious, and political factors. While the junta frames the law as a defense of national values, it risks deepening social divisions, undermining human rights, and straining international relations.
The reactions to the law, both within Burkina Faso and globally, highlight the complex dynamics of LGBTQ+ rights in Africa, where cultural sovereignty often clashes with universal human rights principles. For Burkina Faso, the challenge lies in balancing its pursuit of security and stability with the need to protect the dignity and rights of all citizens. As the country navigates its future under military rule, the international community must engage constructively to support both human rights and humanitarian needs, ensuring that marginalized groups are not left behind in the pursuit of national development.
