LGBTQ+ Law In Cameroon | africatourvisa

It is crucial for any LGBTQ+ traveler considering a trip to Cameroon to be aware of the severe legal and social climate regarding homosexuality and gender identity in the country.

The human rights situation for LGBTQ+ individuals in Cameroon is a serious concern, with consistent reports of widespread discrimination, violence, and targeted legal enforcement. Travelers should be fully informed of these risks before planning a visit.

1. Criminalization of Same-Sex Sexual Activity:

• Illegal: Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Cameroon under Article 347-1 of the Penal Code (formerly 347bis).
• Penalties: The law carries penalties of six months to five years imprisonment and a fine ranging from 20,000 to 200,000 CFA Francs (XAF).
• Active Enforcement: Unlike some countries where such laws are rarely enforced, there is substantial and consistent evidence that the law in Cameroon is routinely and aggressively enforced. Human rights organizations regularly report arbitrary arrests, detentions, and convictions of individuals based on perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, often with little to no evidence of sexual activity.
• Online Criminalization: The Law on Cybersecurity and Cybercrime (2010) also criminalizes online same-sex sexual propositions, with penalties ranging from one to two years imprisonment and fines. These penalties are doubled if the online propositions are followed by sexual intercourse.

2. Lack of Legal Protections and Societal Discrimination:

• No Anti-Discrimination Laws: There are no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression in employment, housing, or the provision of goods and services.
• Societal Stigma: Cameroon is a conservative society where homosexuality is widely frowned upon and stigmatized. Public opinion surveys indicate very low levels of acceptance for homosexual individuals.
• Violence and Harassment: LGBTQ+ individuals frequently face widespread and systemic discrimination, violence, harassment, threats, extortion, and even torture and murder. This can be perpetrated by both private individuals and, alarmingly, by law enforcement and security forces.
• Arbitrary Arrests: Arrests are often based on suspicion, appearance, or accusations rather than evidence of actual same-sex sexual relations. There are documented cases of individuals being arrested for simply "wearing women's clothing in a restaurant" or for their perceived "behavior."
• Abuse in Custody: Those detained for alleged same-sex conduct are reportedly subjected to beatings, forced anal examinations (which have no evidentiary value and are considered cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment), solitary confinement, and ill-treatment by prison guards and other inmates.
• Censorship: There is also censorship of LGBTQ+ issues in media, and organizations working on LGBTQ+ rights or HIV/AIDS support for LGBTQ+ communities have faced obstacles, raids, and suspensions.

3. Gender Identity and Expression

• No Legal Recognition: There is no legal recognition for changes in legal gender or non-binary gender identities.
• De Facto Criminalization: Transgender and gender diverse people are de facto criminalized, often arrested under the same "homosexuality" laws based on their gender expression.

Recommendations for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Given this extremely challenging and dangerous legal and social environment, LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme caution when visiting Cameroon:

• Discretion is Paramount: Avoid any public displays of affection. Be discreet about your sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Privacy: Exercise extreme caution in online communications and social media, as online "sexual propositions" can also be criminalized.
• Safety in Numbers: If traveling with a partner, it may be advisable to present yourselves as friends rather than a couple.
• Accommodation: Choose reputable hotels known for their professionalism, where your privacy is more likely to be respected.
• No Open Activism: Do not engage in any form of LGBTQ+ activism or public advocacy while in Cameroon, as this could put you at significant risk.
• Consult Your Embassy: Before traveling, consult your country's embassy or consulate for the latest travel advisories and information regarding LGBTQ+ rights and safety in Cameroon.
• Be Aware of Local Perceptions: Understand that societal attitudes are overwhelmingly conservative and intolerant towards LGBTQ+ individuals.