Ghana: UN and human rights groups condemn passage of ‘profoundly disturbing’ anti-LGBTQ+ bill
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In a recent development that has sparked international outrage, Ghana’s parliament passed a bill that criminalizes LGBTQ+ people and their allies. The bill, known as the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill, not only targets individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ but also imposes harsh penalties on those who advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
The bill, which was passed unanimously by Ghana’s parliament on February 28, introduces imprisonment ranging from a few months to three years for LGBTQ+ individuals. Additionally, individuals advocating for LGBTQ+ rights could face even harsher jail terms of three to five years. The bill is yet to be signed by President Nana Akufo-Addo before it becomes law.
The passage of this bill has been met with widespread condemnation from Ghanaian and international advocacy organizations, as well as the United Nations. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, described the bill as “profoundly disturbing,” emphasizing that it broadens the scope of criminal sanctions against LGBTQ+ individuals simply for being who they are.
Türk urged the Ghanaian government to ensure that everyone can live free from violence, stigma, and discrimination, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. He emphasized that consensual same-sex conduct should never be criminalized and called for the bill not to become law.
The bill’s introduction follows a crackdown against the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana, where consensual same-sex sexual activity remains illegal under a law dating back to British colonial rule. LGBTQ+ Ghanaians have faced increased levels of discrimination, abuse, and violence in recent years, further exacerbating their marginalization in society.
Several human rights organizations have criticized the bill, with LGBTQ+ Rights Ghana calling it “draconian” and a blatant disregard for democratic principles and human rights enshrined in Ghana’s constitution. The organization highlighted that the bill infringes on fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, expression, privacy, association, and assembly, further marginalizing LGBTQ+ individuals and restricting their access to essential services.
The American LGBTQ+ advocacy group, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), expressed outrage over the passage of the bill, describing it as cruel and violative of fundamental rights. David Stacy, HRC’s vice-president of government affairs, condemned lawmakers for using their power to strip away the basic humanity of LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. He called on the international community to stand up for the rights of all LGBTQI+ people and pledged HRC’s support to its Ghanaian partners during this challenging time.
As international condemnation grows, LGBTQ+ activists and allies in Ghana are preparing to resist the implementation of this discriminatory legislation. The passage of the bill not only threatens the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals but also challenges Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of hope for democracy and human rights in Africa.
In the face of adversity, LGBTQ+ Ghanaians remain resilient, maintaining faith and hope for a future where they can live freely without fear of discrimination or persecution. The fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana continues as activists and allies stand united against this oppressive legislation.
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