Harsher Penalties Proposed

Ghana's parliament has passed a stringent bill targeting the LGBTQ+ community, introducing up to three years of imprisonment for individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ and up to five years for those involved in LGBTQ+ organizations. The legislation, supported by major political parties, awaits President Nana Akufo-Addo's approval, who has indicated his decision would align with public consensus. The move amplifies existing laws where gay sex is punishable by a three-year term.

International Concerns and Local Response

The bill has drawn criticism from international bodies like Amnesty International and UNAIDS for threatening basic human rights and inciting potential violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. It also proposes up to 10 years in jail for LGBTQ+ advocacy directed at minors and mandates public reporting of LGBTQ+ individuals. This legislative action follows the closure of Accra's first LGBTQ+ community center in 2021 amidst widespread protests and disapproval from religious and traditional leaders, emphasizing the country's conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues.

Watch Ghanian lawmaker at UN assembly.

Comparative International Landscape

Ghana's approach mirrors a recent trend in some African nations, like Uganda, where anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments have led to similarly harsh laws, raising concerns about human rights violations and the impact on public health and societal development.

Legislative Debate and Modifications

The approved bill has been moderated from its initial version, reducing jail terms and removing clauses on conversion therapy. Despite proposals for alternative penalties like community service and counseling, the parliament favored incarceration, reflecting a robust opposition to LGBTQ+ rights within the legislative body.