Niger enacts harsh penalties for homosexuality and dissolves nine state entities
via Lefaso.net4 min read
Niger has introduced a new penal code, promulgated on June 11, 2026, which imposes severe penalties for same-sex relations. Individuals engaging in or attempting to engage in "indecent or unnatural acts" or same-sex sexual relations face imprisonment of five to ten years and fines up to 100 million FCFA. Changing or attempting to change one's birth sex, or entering into a same-sex marriage, carries a penalty of 10 to 20 years imprisonment. The same sanction applies to those who manage, direct, finance, or participate in clubs, societies, organizations, or associations related to homosexuality or LGBTQIA+ individuals. The government had previously expressed concern in October 2023 about attempts to introduce LGBT practices and discussions into Nigerien society, particularly in schools, and pledged to uphold Nigerien values and traditions regarding sexuality. Niger joins countries like Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Senegal in strengthening anti-LGBT legislation. Additionally, on June 8, 2026, the Tiani administration dissolved nine state entities attached to the presidency, the Prime Minister's office, and the General Secretariat of the Government. These include the National Center for Strategic Studies and Security CNESS, the Investment Fund for Food and Nutritional Security FISAN, the Agency for the Modernization of Nigerien Cities AMV-Niger, the High Authority of Waqf, the General Inspectorate of Administrative Governance IGGA, the High Commission for State Modernization HCME, th
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