Ibrahim Zigui Fuels Homophobia in Ivory Coast
- Since September, over 45 homophobic assaults have been reported in Ivory Coast's largest city, Abidjan.
- Social media influencers like Ibrahim Zigui have contributed to rising anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment with inflammatory rhetoric.
- The surge in violence threatens Ivory Coast's previous reputation as a more tolerant environment for LGBTQ+ citizens.
Ivory Coast, once a refuge for LGBTQ+ individuals in West Africa, has experienced a disturbing rise in homophobic violence. Over 45 assaults targeting gay men and transgender people have occurred in Abidjan since September. High-profile social media influencers have played a significant role in this shift; for instance, Ibrahim Zigui's posts have heightened tensions against the gay community. This alarming increase in hostility was evident at recent sporting events, where fans displayed derogatory messages against homosexuality. Local advocates and human rights groups are deeply concerned about the implications for Ivory Coast's reputation for comparative tolerance. A transgender safety advocate reported needing to close their organization's headquarters due to threats of violence. The government maintains a neutral position regarding same-sex orientation, with existing laws either ambiguous or non-protective. This lack of legal clarity, paired with external societal pressures, has exacerbated the risks faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. The situation is made more precarious with the approach of the 2025 presidential election. Political analysts warn that candidates might exploit social issues, including homophobia, to secure votes. Furthermore, the region's overall conservative trends surrounding sexual orientation are influential as neighboring countries adopt harsher anti-gay policies. The fear is that the ongoing escalation may threaten the lives and civil rights of LGBTQ+ communities in Ivory Coast. Although the legal framework does not officially criminalize homosexuality, it does not provide sufficient protections against discrimination, leaving many individuals vulnerable to violence and societal rejection.