Ghana’s parliament has passed a sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ bill that imposes jail terms on individuals who identify as gay, lesbian, or transgender, drawing sharp condemnation from international human rights organisations while receiving broad support from religious leaders and many citizens within the country.
What the Bill Contains
The legislation, which has been years in the making and survived intense international scrutiny, criminalises same-sex activity and targets individuals who publicly identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Under the new law, those found guilty of engaging in same-sex acts face custodial sentences. The bill also includes provisions that restrict advocacy and the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights within Ghana, raising concerns among civil society groups about the impact on freedom of expression and assembly.
Supporters of the bill, including a significant bloc of Christian and Muslim religious leaders who hold considerable influence in Ghanaian public life, argue that the legislation reflects the country’s cultural and religious values. They contend that Ghana has the sovereign right to define and protect its social norms without external interference.
International Criticism
The passage of the bill has been met with swift condemnation from international human rights bodies, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, which described the legislation as a grave violation of fundamental human rights. The United Nations also raised concern, calling on Ghanaian authorities to reconsider the law and uphold their obligations under international human rights treaties to which Ghana is a signatory.
Several Western governments, including the United States and members of the European Union, have signalled that the law could have implications for development aid and bilateral relations. Advocacy groups warned that the legislation could further endanger LGBTQ+ individuals in Ghana, who already face significant social stigma and discrimination.
Context
Ghana joins a number of other African nations that have enacted or tightened laws criminalising same-sex relationships in recent years. Proponents of the bill drew parallels with legislation in neighbouring countries and argued that Ghana was simply aligning itself with regional norms. Critics, however, maintain that criminalising identity is incompatible with democratic governance and the protection of minority rights.
The bill now awaits presidential assent. It remains to be seen whether President John Mahama, who returned to power in the 2024 elections, will sign it into law or seek amendments under the pressure of international scrutiny.
