Gambia

Gambia has criminalized same-sex conduct since the British colonial era. In 2014, the Criminal Code (Amendment) Act of 2014 introduced a new offense of “aggravated homosexuality,” including “serial offenders” and consensual sexual acts involving persons living with HIV and persons with disabilities, with a sentence of life imprisonment. It was signed into law by former president Yahya Jammeh, who also threatened to “decapitate” gay people.

A new criminal code, issued in March 2025, removes language on “aggravated homosexuality.” However, it sets a minimum sentence of five years for “unnatural offenses,” defined as including “any homosexual act with another person,” and a minimum sentence of three years for “gross indecency,” which is also defined as “any homosexual act.” No maximum sentence provided, suggesting that any same-sex sexual act could result in up to life in prison.

The government of President Adama Barrow, which came into power in 2017 after 22 years of dictatorial rule by Jammeh, has not typically enforced anti-homosexuality laws, and Barrow dismissed homosexuality as “not an issue” in the country in 2017, citing more “pressing” priorities. However, in April 2025, two men were arrested and charged with gross indecency. The Brusubi Magistrate’s Court sentenced them to five years in prison in March 2026, with the judge accusing them of acting “without any remorse to corrupt the minds of the whole nation.”

There are no legal protections for LGBTIQ persons who face discrimination in accessing essential goods and services, such as housing, employment, and 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.