‘Witch-hunt’ in Niger as military regime rounds up LGBTQ+ population

"Homosexuality Crackdown in Niger Sparks Fears of HIV Resurgence In a disturbing turn of events, Niger has descended into a "toxic" climate as at least 40 people have been arrested in a wave of homophobic crackdowns following the introduction of a new penal code earlier this year. The harsh laws have led to the imprisonment of 16 men, including high-ranking military officials, in a move that has been widely condemned by human rights groups. The arrests have sparked fears that the loss of access to PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) drugs, a crucial tool in preventing HIV transmission, will lead to a resurgence of the deadly disease. As the situation in Niger continues to deteriorate, concerns are growing about the impact on the country's already vulnerable LGBTQ+ community."

Fears of resurgence of HIV/Aids amid loss of access to PrEP drugs as at least 40 people arrested in ‘toxic’ climateA “witch-hunt” is under way in Niger, where dozens of people have been arrested for homosexuality in the west African state following the introduction of a new penal code earlier this year.Up to 40 people have been arrested and 16 men, including high-ranking military officials, have been imprisoned across the country, according to local media. Continue reading...