The recent passage of the Anti-LGBT+ Bill in Ghana has sparked widespread concern and condemnation from international media outlets and organizations, who fear its implications for human rights and inclusivity.
The legislation, which seeks to proscribe and criminalize lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) activities, has drawn sharp criticism for its potential to marginalize and endanger vulnerable communities.
The bill, which was approved on February 28, 2024, awaits presidential assent to come into effect. Its provisions include imposing hefty penalties on individuals engaged in same-sex relations, with a six-month to three-year jail term for offenders and a three to five-year jail term for promoters and sponsors of such acts.
International media coverage of the bill’s passage has largely focused on expressing concern over its potential impact on the rights and freedoms of LGBT individuals. News outlets have highlighted the discriminatory nature of the legislation, which seeks to restrict fundamental liberties based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Moreover, prominent international organizations have joined the chorus of criticism, denouncing the bill as a violation of human rights principles. Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and other advocacy groups have issued statements condemning the legislation and urging [Country]’s government to reconsider its stance. They warn that the bill’s enforcement could lead to widespread discrimination, persecution, and violence against LGBT individuals, further exacerbating social divisions and undermining efforts to promote equality and tolerance.
In addition to concerns about its human rights implications, international commentators have also questioned the motivations behind the bill’s passage. Some have speculated that political maneuvering and pandering to conservative elements may have influenced the decision to enact such legislation, rather than a genuine commitment to upholding societal values.
The passage of the Anti-LGBT+ Bill in Ghana has reignited debates about the rights of LGBT individuals and the role of governments in safeguarding their freedoms. As the bill awaits presidential assent, pressure continues to mount on Ghana’s leadership to reconsider its approach and ensure that all citizens are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera reported that the Bill, considered one of the harshest of its kind in Africa, could lead to imprisonment ranging from six months to three years for those participating in LGBTQ+ activities and three to five years for those promoting or supporting such activities.
Reuters
Reuters emphasised the intensified crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana.
According to the Reuters report, the bill, sponsored by a coalition of religious and traditional leaders, received favour from the majority of lawmakers and if signed into law by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, it would further restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and those advocating for their rights.
BBC Pidgin
BBC Pidgin highlighted the local context, noting the widespread support for the bill in Ghana despite opposition from human rights groups and civil society organizations.
The report underscored the concerns that the law could potentially abuse the rights of sexual minorities and the controversial nature of criminalizing private activities.
CNN
CNN pointed to the unanimous passage by parliament, describing it as a comprehensive measure that not only criminalizes LGBTQ+ relationships but also targets individuals supporting LGBTQ+ rights.
The news outlet referenced the three-year prison term for identifying as LGBTQ+ and the five-year sentence for promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities.
New York Times
The New York Times zoomed in on the severity of the legislation, stating that if signed into law, it would be among the harshest on the African continent.
The report highlighted the potential three-year jail term for identifying as gay and the five-year sentence for promoters of LGBTQ+ issues.
DW
The German broadcaster reported on the bill’s background, noting that the legislation has been the subject of discussion since 2021.
The report highlighted the support from a coalition of Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian traditional leaders and the potential jail terms that engaging in, promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities came with.
The human rights advocates are needed more on the massacres going on in Gaza,and for the so called international press their collaboration in the killings around the world by NATO and its appendages they better shut up.