Ghana’s parliament has passed a sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ bill that introduces jail terms for same-sex relations and criminalises individuals who identify as gay, lesbian, or transgender. The legislation, which received broad support across the chamber, marks one of the most significant legislative moves against LGBTQ+ rights on the African continent in recent years.
What the Bill Contains
Under the new law, individuals found guilty of engaging in same-sex acts face the possibility of custodial sentences. The bill goes beyond previous provisions by explicitly targeting those who publicly identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as individuals or organisations that advocate for or promote LGBTQ+ rights within the country.
Supporters of the legislation in parliament argued that it reflects the cultural and religious values of Ghana’s population, the majority of whom are Christian or Muslim. Proponents claim the bill safeguards what they describe as the country’s traditional family values and social fabric.
International Reaction
The passage of the bill has drawn sharp criticism from international human rights organisations and Western governments. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch both condemned the legislation, warning that it places LGBTQ+ Ghanaians at serious risk of persecution, violence, and discrimination.
The United Nations human rights office called on Ghanaian authorities to reconsider the law, noting that it conflicts with international human rights standards to which Ghana is a signatory. Several European nations and the United States are reportedly reviewing the implications of the bill for their bilateral relations and development aid programmes with Accra.
Background and Context
Same-sex activity was already technically illegal in Ghana under colonial-era penal codes, but enforcement had been inconsistent. The new legislation represents a deliberate effort by parliament to codify and strengthen those restrictions in a more explicit and comprehensive manner.
LGBTQ+ advocacy groups in Ghana have described the bill as a devastating blow to their community and have vowed to challenge it through the courts. Several civil society organisations had campaigned actively against its passage, arguing that it would entrench discrimination and make Ghana increasingly hostile to its most vulnerable citizens.
President John Mahama, who returned to office following the December 2024 elections, is expected to decide whether to sign or withhold assent to the legislation. His position on the bill will be closely watched both domestically and internationally in the coming weeks.
