Ghana Anti-LGBTQ+ Law: Ghana’s parliament has passed an Anti-LGBTQ+ law. This comes from a tough new bill that imposes a prison sentence of up to three years for anyone convicted of identifying as LGBTQ+.
Key Provisions In The Ghana Anti-LGBTQ+ Law
- The bill also imposes a maximum five-year jail term for forming or funding LGBTQ+ groups.
- Lawmakers rejected attempts to replace prison sentences with community service and counselling.
- The bill reflects growing opposition to LGBTQ+ rights in the conservative West African nation.
Background Of The Ghana Anti-LGBTQ+ Law
The bill, backed by Ghana’s major political parties, awaits President Nana Akufo-Addo’s signature to become law. Gay sex is already illegal in Ghana, carrying a three-year prison sentence. Amnesty International warned of threats to LGBTQ+ rights posed by the bill.
How did the world react?
Activists fear witch-hunts and persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals. The UN expressed concerns about human rights implications and negative impacts on free speech and access to services. It should however be noted that there is no African country that has been found literally mistreating homosexual people so far. A case in point is Uganda which passed the law, but still allows gay people to post their queer outfits everywhere.
What is the proposed punishment in the Ghana Anti-LGBTQ+ law?
The bill proposes up to 10 years’ imprisonment for involvement in LGBTQ+ advocacy campaigns targeting children. Precisely, it encourages public reporting of LGBTQ+ individuals for “necessary action.”
Where did this issue start from?
The bill was prompted by the opening of Ghana’s first LGBTQ+ community center in Accra in 2021. Police shut down the center amid public protests and pressure from religious and traditional leaders. Critics argue LGBTQ+ identities clash with Ghanaian culture and values.
How was the Ghana Anti-LGBTQ+ Law approved?
The bill, revised from an earlier version, saw contentious debate in parliament. Additionally, efforts to offer alternatives to imprisonment were rebuffed by supporters of prison sentences.
