Country Overview
Gambia
At a glance
Same-sex Relations for Men Legal Throughout the Country?
Same-sex Relations for Women Legal Throughout the Country?
Legal Gender Recognition Possible?
LGBTI Orgs Able to Register?
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Part 4 of the Criminal Code (Amendment) Act of The Gambia criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual conduct between adults by punishing acts “against the order of nature” and acts of “gross indecency.” The law also punishes “aggravated homosexuality.” The government does not actively enforce these laws. Citing more “pressing” priorities, President Adama Barrow dismissed homosexuality as “not an issue” in the country in 2017. However, in 2024, there were calls by the opposition, led by the Gambia Action Party, for the government to enact anti-homosexuality laws. There are no legal protections for LGBTIQ persons who face discrimination in accessing essential goods and services, such as housing, employment, and access to government services, including health care. There is strong societal discrimination against LGBTIQ persons, according to the 2023 U.S. Department of State Human Rights Practices Report. There are also no recognized organizations advocating for LGBTIQ people’s human rights in the country.
*Outright research indicates that the bodily autonomy of intersex people is not respected and protected in this country.
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