Mali, Africa

Mali is the seventh largest country in Africa. The country's economic structure centers around agriculture and fishing. Some of Mali's natural resources include gold, uranium, and salt. After a long period of one-party rule, a 1991 coup led to the writing of a new constitution and the establishment of Mali as a democratic, multi-party state. Mali is considered to be one of the poorest nations in the world. There are no laws against homosexuality. It is not mentioned as a criminal offence in the penal code. Gay sexual activity is technically legal. However in a case in 1999 two lesbians where punished under the guise of violating Public Morals. There exist 'Public Indecency in Sexual Offense' statutes. (Three months to two years in prison and a fine.)