Droits des femmes : Me Moussa Sarr favorable à une infraction spécifique pour le féminicide
Could femicide soon be specifically criminalized in Senegal? This question was at the heart of discussions on Monday, September 7, 2026, between the Minister of Justice, Keeper of the Seals, Moussa Sarr, and a delegation of women's and feminist organizations committed to defending the rights of women and girls. The announcement was made on his Facebook page, Me Moussa Sarr's platform.
According to the report, during the meeting, the representatives advocated for the recognition of femicide as a distinct offense. The Minister of Justice initially appeared supportive of this demand. Mr. Moussa Sarr indicated that he was, in principle, in favor of specifically recognizing femicide as a crime, thus opening the door to consideration of its potential inclusion in the Senegalese legal framework.
The issue arises within a context marked by violence against women and girls, which was also raised during the hearing. Feminist organizations stressed the need to strengthen the judicial response, but also prevention, victim protection, and training for security forces.
The delegation also raised several other sensitive issues: the overhaul of the Family Code, medical abortion in cases of rape and incest, the situation of women in detention, violence against women and children, and harassment, particularly on digital platforms.
Regarding violence against women and girls, the minister assured that this issue will be addressed in the upcoming circular on general criminal policy. This direction should help clarify the priorities of the public prosecutor's office in combating this violence.
Regarding the reform of the Family Code and medical abortion in cases of rape or incest, Mr. Moussa Sarr called for continued discussion. He emphasized the particularly sensitive nature of these issues and the need to seek "dynamic compromises" that take into account the diverse sensitivities within Senegalese society.
The organizations also advocated for better support for victims and a strengthening of the security forces' capacity. They commended the work of the Justice Centers, while calling for more resources for these facilities.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss the planned national conference on the rights of women and girls. The organizations proposed the establishment of a permanent framework for dialogue with the government.
For his part, Mr. Moussa Sarr reaffirmed that human rights organizations are key partners of the State. He announced the upcoming establishment of a framework for consultation and dialogue, which will bring together the various organizations at least once a year to review the human rights situation in Senegal.
The creation of an ad hoc committee tasked with preparing a national human rights strategy is also under consideration.
With the position expressed by the Minister of Justice on femicide, the meeting thus opens a new sequence of reflection on strengthening the criminal response to violence against women in Senegal.
Doudou DIOP
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