Ghana Parliament Approves Anti-LGBTQ Law

Ghana’s parliament has approved a law that would make the promotion, sponsorship, or intentional support of LGBTQ activities punishable by three to five years in prison. The law, which is now awaiting ratification by President Nana Akufo-Addo, not President John Mahama, as he is no longer in office, has sparked widespread controversy and concern among human rights groups.

Background of the Law

The law, which was first proposed in 2021, aims to prohibit the promotion and support of LGBTQ activities in Ghana. The bill has been met with strong opposition from human rights groups, who argue that it would infringe upon the rights of LGBTQ individuals and promote discrimination and violence against them.

Provisions of the Law

The law would make it punishable by three to five years in prison to promote, sponsor, or intentionally support LGBTQ activities. This would include activities such as organizing LGBTQ events, providing support to LGBTQ organizations, or promoting LGBTQ rights.

• Promotion, sponsorship, or intentional support of LGBTQ activities would be punishable by three to five years in prison
• The law would also prohibit the formation of LGBTQ organizations and the promotion of LGBTQ materials
• Individuals who identify as LGBTQ would be required to seek ‘treatment’ to change their sexual orientation

Reaction to the Law

Human rights groups have strongly condemned the law, arguing that it would promote discrimination and violence against LGBTQ individuals. The United Nations has also expressed concern over the law, stating that it would infringe upon the rights of LGBTQ individuals and promote a culture of intolerance and discrimination.

Conclusion

The approval of the anti-LGBTQ law by Ghana’s parliament is a concerning development that has sparked widespread controversy and concern. As the law awaits ratification by the president, human rights groups and individuals around the world are watching with bated breath, hoping that the president will reject the law and promote a culture of tolerance and acceptance.