Social and economic challenges
Senegal is ranked 168th out of 191 countries in the latest HDI 2023. Despite the economic potential represented by new natural gas and oil deposits, the situation remains tense: high youth unemployment, energy shortages and inflation mark daily life. Many young people see migration as their only prospect. So far, the profits from the raw materials sector have hardly benefited the population at large, while social inequalities are on the increase.
The 2024 presidential elections: a turning point with mixed expectations
The 2024 presidential elections marked a decisive moment in Senegal's political history. After years of turmoil and the postponement of the vote in February, Ousmane Sonko emerged victorious. As the leader of the opposition and a critic of the political elite, he has above all received the support of young people, who have been galvanized by his promises of reforms against corruption, unemployment and social injustice.
Sonko's electoral victory symbolizes a break with current government management and raises hopes of a new political departure. At the same time, his proximity to conservative and religious forces creates polarization. This polarization has repercussions for the LGBTQI+ community.
Increased discrimination of the LGBTQI+ community under new leadership
Attitudes towards homosexuals in Senegal remain highly conservative. Same-sex relationships are punishable by up to 5 years in prison. Under the new political leadership, discrimination has increased: hatred, aggression and public stigmatization are on the rise. Activists* and organizations defending the rights of the LGBTQI+ community face increasing pressure and social exclusion.
Women's rights in Senegal - a struggle between progress and resistance
In Senegal, women make a disproportionate contribution to the economy, particularly in the informal sector, but they are also victims of structural inequalities. Access to healthcare, education and decision-making remains limited. Women often bear the main burden of household, farm and family income, while patriarchal laws and norms undermine their rights.
Despite this, the Senegalese women's movement remains a decisive driving force for change. Since the 1970s, women's organizations have been successfully campaigning for gender equality. Important milestones have been reached:
Enforcement of these laws remains inadequate, however. The 1972 "Family Code" defines men as "head of the family", authorizes child marriages from the age of 16 and prevents forced proof of paternity. Conservative forces are also blocking application of the 2005 Maputo Protocol, which would authorize abortion under certain conditions.
The "Me Too" movement, known in Senegal under the hashtag "Balance ton saï-saï", is mainly driven by young intellectual women. They are fighting against patriarchy, for physical self-determination, access to contraception and respect for sexual and reproductive rights. However, they are encountering strong resistance from religious and traditional circles.
Senegal, an anchor of stability in West Africa
Despite these challenges, Senegal remains an anchor of stability in West Africa. Unlike neighboring countries, there have been no coups d'état to date, elections are regularly held and civil society remains strong. Activists*, media and civil society organizations monitor the government, encourage dialogue and are committed to social justice.
Senegal plays an important role in the region: it is committed to peace, economic integration and pan-African cooperation. Political stability, the absence of violence to date and social dialogue contribute to its special position. In this context, universities and intellectual elites make a valuable contribution to solving social problems and improving living conditions for young people.
Key figures
Area: 196,722 km2
Capital: Dakar / approx. 3,34 million inhabitants
Population: 18,85 million
Population growth: 2.5% per annum (2015: 2,7%)
Urban population: 49,6%
Infant mortality: 32 per 1,000 live births (2015: 51,5)
Maternal mortality: 261 per 100,000 live births
Fertility rate: 4,06 children born/woman (2015: 4,4)
Life expectancy: 70.6 years
Physician density: 0.09 physicians/1,000 population (2019)
Literacy (15 years and older): 56,3%
Source: CIA World Factbook (2025)
