Horizon Sans Frontières Urges Legal Compliance in Dakar 2026 Security Operations

The Senegalese authorities have been urged to ensure the security, sanitation, and circulation of foreigners in Dakar without stigmatizing them ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympics. Horizon Sans frontières, a non-governmental organization, has called on the government to focus on addressing illegal occupation of public space, unauthorized activities, or infractions, regardless of nationality.

This development is significant for practitioners as it highlights the need for authorities to balance security measures with respect for human dignity and the rights of foreigners. The organization's demand that interventions be based on facts, regular procedures, and equal rules for all underscores the importance of upholding due process and non-discrimination in law enforcement.

The relevant legal context is the Senegalese Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination on grounds of nationality. The organization's stance also reflects international human rights standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. Horizon Sans frontières has been vocal in its criticism of practices perceived as degrading or disproportionate, citing the example of Senegalese athletes subjected to intrusive searches during the 2024 US Open.

The key parties involved are the Senegalese authorities, including law enforcement agencies and government officials, as well as Horizon Sans frontières and other civil society organizations. Practitioners should monitor this development closely, as it may set a precedent for future human rights cases in Senegal. They should also be aware of the organization's advocacy efforts to promote respect for human dignity and non-discrimination in law enforcement practices.

Practitioner takeaway: Attorneys and businesses operating in Senegal should be aware of the government's obligations under international human rights law and the need to balance security measures with respect for human dignity. They should also monitor developments related to Horizon Sans frontières' advocacy efforts, as these may have implications for future cases involving human rights and non-discrimination.