Cameroon’s government is taking measures to prevent France’s LGBT+ rights ambassador from visiting the country, citing the violation of its anti-gay laws. Jean-Marc Berthon, the representative of the French government on global LGBT+ rights, is scheduled to attend an event organized by the French Institute in Cameroon’s capital, Yaounde, from 27th June to 1st July. The conference, focused on gender and sexual identity, has raised concerns among Cameroonian authorities as they believe the proposed topics infringe upon the country’s anti-homosexuality legislation. In response, the government sent a diplomatic notice to the French embassy, expressing its opposition to Berthon’s visit and all associated activities.
Cameroon’s Foreign Minister, Lejeune Mbella Mbella, stated that homosexuality is considered a crime under Cameroon’s legal framework. This stance is consistent with the majority of African nations, where only 22 out of 54 countries permit homosexuality. In Cameroon specifically, engaging in same-sex relations can result in prison sentences of up to five years. Human Rights Watch has reported a surge in abuses targeting the LGBT+ community in Cameroon, including violent attacks and arbitrary arrests. Furthermore, Cameroon’s National Communication Council recently cautioned media outlets against promoting content related to homosexuality.
Berthon’s intended visit coincides with Uganda’s recent enactment of stringent anti-LGBTQ legislation, one of the world’s most severe, granting judges the power to impose lengthy prison terms and even the death penalty for same-sex activities. Simultaneously, Cameroon’s President, Paul Biya, is expected to visit France for President Emmanuel Macron’s Summit for a New Global Financing Pact, marking his first visit since 2019.
Cameroon’s government aims to block France’s LGBT+ rights ambassador from entering the country due to concerns that the planned conference would contravene anti-homosexuality laws. This development aligns with rising homophobia in Cameroon, where the LGBT+ community faces increasing abuses. The situation mirrors recent events in Uganda, which enacted strict anti-LGBTQ legislation. Meanwhile, President Biya is set to visit France for a summit, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.
