Burkina Faso has officially criminalized homosexuality under a newly adopted Personal and Family Code, marking a major shift in the country’s legal framework.

The law, passed by the Transitional Legislative Assembly on Monday, makes same-sex relations punishable by imprisonment, sparking widespread debate both domestically and internationally.

Alongside the ban, the revised code legalizes customary and religious marriages, granting them formal recognition under national law for the first time.

Rights groups and international observers have already expressed concern over the move, warning it could erode fundamental freedoms and fuel discrimination.