The Parliament of Ghana recently made headlines by passing the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law, officially titled the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021. This legislative move follows a series of considerations by lawmakers and has sparked intense debates both within the country and on the international stage.
The law, colloquially known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, criminalizes activities perceived as promoting or advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana. Among its provisions is the criminalization of LGBTQ+ advocacy and support services, with penalties including fines and imprisonment for both individuals and organizations found guilty of promoting LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, the bill aims to prohibit same-sex marriage and any form of public display of affection between individuals of the same sex.
The introduction of this legislation reflects broader societal attitudes towards homosexuality and gender diversity in Ghana. It was championed by a group of lawmakers and gained support from various religious and conservative groups. The bill's proponents argue that it aligns with Ghanaian cultural values and aims to safeguard traditional family structures.
However, the proposed legislation has faced vehement opposition, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that it infringes upon fundamental human rights, including the rights to freedom of expression, association, and non-discrimination. There are concerns about the potential for increased discrimination, violence, and persecution against LGBTQ+ individuals if the bill is enacted into law.
Societal attitudes in Ghana towards issues related to sexuality and gender identity are diverse, often influenced by cultural, religious, and traditional beliefs. While some segments of society advocate for stricter laws to curb perceived moral decadence, others argue for the recognition and protection of LGBTQ+ rights as a matter of human rights and social justice.
Politically, the bill has become a contentious issue, with different political parties and leaders expressing varying degrees of support or opposition. Some politicians view the bill as a reflection of Ghanaian cultural values, aiming to preserve the traditional family structure, while others argue for its rejection based on constitutional principles and respect for human rights.
One notable figure in support of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill is Sam George, Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram. He has been vocal in advocating for the "Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill," emphasizing the necessity to protect Ghanaian cultural values.
Conversely, the founder and director of LGBTQ+ Rights Ghana, Alex Kofi Donkor, has entered the debate, stating that the proposed new anti-gay law has led to attacks on the country's LGBTQI community. He highlights a continuous scapegoating of LGBTQ+ people, especially by politicians, and expresses concerns about dehumanizing portrayals of the LGBTQ+ community.
The international community and rights activists have strongly condemned the bill. During her visit to Ghana, Vice President Kamala Harris declared the anti-LGBTQI+ bill an affront to the minority group in the country, emphasizing its implications on human rights. Similarly, former French Minister Chrysoula Zacharopoulou stressed the need for Ghanaians to respect the human rights of LGBTQ+ persons, aligning with the promotion of human rights by France and the European Union.
Former US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has also raised concerns over the proposed legislation, urging Ghanaian lawmakers to respect international obligations and domestic laws aimed at protecting the rights of all persons, regardless of their sexual orientation. She emphasizes the importance of respecting people's rights to live peacefully and free from harm.
The Humanist Association in Ghana has called on Parliament to withdraw the anti-LGBTQI+ bill, considering it an affront to the minority group in the country. The spokesperson for the group, Justice Okai Allotey, observes that the first public hearing on the bill exposed misleading aspects, urging a more nuanced consideration of the substance rather than the noise surrounding the debate.
Amidst these debates and varied perspectives, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has taken a strong stance against the legalization of LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana. He declared that he would prefer to die than witness the rights of homosexuals being legalized during his time, underscoring the depth of emotions and convictions surrounding this contentious issue.
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