Senegal

Law criminalizing rape and pedophilia

In order to provide a better deterrent for certain forms of violence against women and girls, Senegal will amend its Penal Code with the adoption of a law aimed at increasing the sentences for cases of rape and pedophilia.

With the forthcoming adoption of this law, rape, currently punishable by a sentence of 5 to 10 years, will be punishable by a sentence of 10 to 20 years without the possibility for suspended sentences or attenuating circumstances.

As regards pedophilia, the sentence will be of 5 to 10 years without the possibility for suspended sentences. Offences committed by an ascendant of the victim or by someone with any authority over a child victim will be classed as aggravating circumstances.

Senegal expects for this law to be examined by the Council of Ministers in September and for it to be promptly sent to be voted on by Parliament before the end of 2019.