Cameroon: Two Trans women released from prison
Reuters reported on July 17 that two Transgender women in Cameroon who were convicted of "attempted homosexuality" have been released from prison after five months. One of the women, Shakiro, said of the experience: "Prison is hell. It's hellfire. Especially when they accuse you of homosexuality." Shakiro also said that chains were put on her legs, and that she had to pay money to have them removed. In light of Cameroon's growing criminalization of sexual minorities, human rights advocates have filed an appeal, which is expected to be heard in September.

Brussels: EU clashes with Poland and Hungary
Reuters reported July 15 on the European Union's ongoing legal battle with Hungary and Poland over a number of the latter country's municipalities declaring themselves "LGBT-ideology-free zones," among more official anti-LGBT measures. The EU filed an infringement action related to Hungary's ban on the use of materials that "promote homosexuality" in schools. Hungary and Poland now have two months to respond. If they don't, the case will be referred to the EU Court of Justice, where critics of Poland and Hungary are suggesting that the EU target the countries' post-pandemic recovery funds.