On February 28, 2024, Ghana’s Parliament unanimously passed the ‘Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021,’ widely known as the anti-LGBT Bill. Sponsored by a coalition of religious and traditional leaders, this regressive legislation poses a severe threat to the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals in Ghana.
Among the harshest in Africa, the bill criminalises the mere identification as an LGBTQ+ community member and “related activities,” including same-sex relationships, the use of sex toys, and cross-dressing. Queer individuals could face imprisonment ranging from three months to three years, while allies, donors, activists, human rights defenders, and perceived “promoters” of LGBTQ+ rights, including journalists, may face three to five years in jail.
While awaiting validation by the president before becoming law, the legislation enjoys widespread support in Ghana, with President Nana Akufo-Addo firmly opposing gay marriage during his tenure.
This proposed legislation not only infringes on fundamental rights like freedom of speech, expression, privacy, association, and assembly but also elevates the risk of violence and abuse against Ghana’s LGBTQ+ community.
The Rustin Times is heartbroken over the recent news coming from Ghana. This anti-gay bill passed by Ghanaian law makers is an infringement on the rights of our LGBTQ+ family in the country. We remain in unwavering solidarity with our queer community in Ghana and maintain that no one deserves to live in fear irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
