Mali’s Transitional National Council has passed a new law criminalising homosexuality, intensifying stigma and discrimination throughout the country.
Same-sex sexual conduct was not previously illegal in Mali, however, vague penal code provisions to persecute LGBT people. Mali Minister for Justice, a longstanding critic of homosexuality, previously condemned homosexuality as “unnatural” and vowed to criminalise it. The new law bans the promotion of homosexuality, the use of the word promotion is not clearly defined.
Mali's human rights record has worsened under military rule with increased crackdown on political opposition, media, dissent, and fighting with Islamist groups. The new law, claiming to protect "traditional values," has led to increased arrests, detention, and abuse targeting individuals for their appearance or gender expression, causing fear among LGBT rights activists.
The law directly contravenes Mali’s obligations under international human rights law, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and African Union Resolution 275, which condemn violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also violates the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Mali ratified in 1974.