Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQIA+ Bill: A Threat To Equality And Human Rights
10 MPs Reintroduce Legislation Prescribing Harsh Penalties for LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Advocates
A group of 10 members of parliament in Ghana have resubmitted a controversial bill that, if passed, would impose some of the strictest anti-LGBTQIA+ laws in Africa. The proposed legislation prescribes a three-year jail term for individuals who identify as gay and five to 10 years for those who promote or advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights.
What Does the Bill Propose?
The bill’s provisions are harsh. Those accused of “promoting or advocating” for LGBTQIA+ rights could face up to a decade in prison. Even identifying as LGBTQIA+ comes with a threat of three years behind bars—a devastating reality for anyone in Ghana’s conservative society.
What drives this push for legislation? Supporters argue the bill will safeguard Ghana’s cultural heritage and family values. Meanwhile, human rights groups label these claims as excuses for violating international human rights obligations. Larissa Kojoué, a researcher for Human Rights Watch, called the bill “inconsistent with Ghana’s tradition of peace, tolerance, and hospitality.” She warned that its passage could trigger widespread violence against LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies.
The bill’s reintroduction comes after political hurdles prevented its progression previously. Ghana’s former president, Nana Akufo-Addo, declined to sign the legislation before leaving office, citing unresolved legal issues. The dissolution of the old parliament effectively killed the bill at the end of 2024.
But now, with a new parliament in session, the MPs are determined to revive the controversial legislation.
President John Mahama, who has expressed cautious interest in a potential state-backed version of the bill, suggested further dialogue was needed. “We should have a conversation so that if we move the bill forward, we do so with consensus,” he said.
A Divided Nation
While proponents claim the bill reflects Ghana’s morals, opponents fear its consequences. LGBTQIA+ activists vow to continue fighting the legislation, despite its reintroduction being described as “disheartening and hard to process” by Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi, a trans woman and LGBTQIA+ rights advocate.
But the cultural rhetoric surrounding this bill isn’t the only concern. Ghana’s economy could feel the blow if the legislation advances. The country relies on significant international funding, including $3.8 billion from the World Bank and an ongoing $3 billion IMF support programme. The former finance minister has cautioned that economic sanctions tied to human rights violations could be catastrophic.
Ghana’s new parliamentary speaker holds the power to decide whether the bill moves forward. As of now, it remains unclear whether the legislation will gain traction. Its history of delays and political hesitations suggests the path ahead could still be rocky.
Where do we stand on this? It’s a reminder of the importance of dialogue and activism in addressing discrimination. How will Ghana reconcile its social values with its international obligations? Only time will tell.
