UN, Netherlands cancel LGBTQ event in Senegal after government warning

12/7/2025 6:18

The U.N. and the Dutch foreign ministry said on Friday they had cancelled an LGBTQ-themed event in Senegal after the West African nation warned of repercussions for organisers and voiced opposition to all "promotion of the LGBTQI phenomenon".



Anti-gay laws are in place in many conservative West African countries, including Senegal, where anyone who commits an "act against nature" with someone of the same sex can be punished by up to five years in prison.



In a statement published on X, Senegal's foreign ministry on Friday said it had been informed of a film screening to be hosted by the U.N. and the Dutch embassy that would have been followed by "discussions on LGBTI issues".



The statement did not specify when the event was scheduled to occur.



"Accordingly, the government reserves the right to take any appropriate action against any organisers of such activities, and even against participants, whatever their origins, status or rank," the foreign ministry statement said.