Ghana has enacted a stringent anti-LGBTQ bill that criminalizes same-sex relationships and LGBTQ advocacy, with penalties of up to ten years in prison. The West African nation’s new law targets individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer, and renews a three-year sentence for those found guilty of engaging in same-sex relationships.
Details of the Legislation
The bill, which was pushed forward by church groups and activists, is expected to be signed into law by President John Dramani Mahama. Supporters argue that it protects 'family values and cultural norms.' However, the legislation includes limited exemptions for journalists, lawyers, and medical professionals, which critics say do little to mitigate broader risks.
Journalist Caleb Ahinakwah expressed concerns to the Telegraph: 'These exemptions do little to address the broader concern that the bill could embolden members of the public to target, harass or attack people perceived to be queer.' Human Rights Watch has condemned the bill, stating it endangers gay people and encourages citizens to surveil and denounce one another.
Regional Context
Ghana is not alone in criminalizing homosexuality. In 2023, Uganda passed a similar anti-homosexuality bill that imposes up to ten years in prison for identifying as LGBTQ. The Ugandan law also includes life imprisonment for same-sex conduct and the death penalty for 'aggravated homosexuality,' which includes same-sex acts with minors or HIV-positive individuals. Additionally, the law criminalizes advocacy for LGBTQ rights and failure to report suspected same-sex acts, with penalties including up to 20 years in prison for supporters and six months for non-reporters.
These developments highlight a troubling trend in parts of Africa where conservative and religious values are used to justify discrimination and violence against LGBTQ communities. Human rights organizations continue to call for the protection of LGBTQ individuals and the repeal of such discriminatory laws.
