The ‘crime’ of sodomy criminalises same-sex acts in eSwatini. Those suspected of the offense are liable to arrest without a warrant. Though not applied in recent history, the law is used to deny human rights and related services to LGBTIQ  people like me in eSwatini.

The ongoing criminalisation of our LGBTIQ community fuels the prejudice, stigma, discrimination and violation that we regularly experience. In a 2019 study over 30% of LGBTIQ persons reported having been denied healthcare services, 50% said they were survivors of sexual violence and 26% said they had attempted to take their own life.

Change has only ever come when the hand of the powerful is forced. This outdated common law offence hangs like a sword above the heads of LGBTIQ people who live in fear of arrest.

Help us bring this important matter to light by signing this petition, urging the government to repeal the common law offence of sodomy.