French civil society and political leaders are stepping up efforts to support LGBTQ+ individuals in Senegal, where a controversial law passed in March now criminalizes same-sex relationships with sentences ranging from five to ten years in prison. The Paris-based organization STOP homophobie reports that it is currently assisting 68 detainees in Senegal, while also providing shelter to several refugees in the Île-de-France region and helping dozens more secure passage to France.

Terrence Khatchadourian, STOP homophobie’s general secretary, reveals that the association has established a dedicated hotline to respond to the growing number of distress calls. “Just two weeks ago, we had logged 3,000 calls, and our team was overwhelmed by the volume,” he explains. “The line was ringing nonstop,” he adds, highlighting the urgent need for support.

“France must do more”

Jean-Luc Romero-Michel, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights advocate and former deputy mayor of Paris, argues that France’s response remains insufficient. “Every day, I receive messages from individuals struggling to obtain humanitarian visas. France is simply not doing enough,” he states, emphasizing the gap between political statements and action.

In a move to address the crisis, Ian Brossat, a Paris city councilor, is set to propose a resolution today that would allocate temporary housing to Senegalese refugees fleeing persecution. “Expressing outrage over the situation in Senegal is commendable, but providing refuge to those in danger is what truly matters,” Brossat asserts.