English
Ghana's Parliament Approves Sweeping Anti-LGBTQ Legislation
Ghana's parliament has passed a stringent anti-LGBTQ bill, the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2026, on May 29, 2026, imposing prison sentences of up to three years for individuals identifying as LGBTQ and up to ten years for promoting or supporting LGBTQ activities. The legislation now awaits the signature of President John Dramani Mahama, who has previously signaled his support for the measure. Human rights groups have condemned the bill as a severe violation of fundamental rights.
Key Provisions of the New Law
The bill, reintroduced by a bipartisan group of MPs led by Reverend John Ntim Fordjour and Samuel Nartey George, expands upon existing colonial-era laws against homosexuality. Key provisions include:
- Criminalization of LGBTQ identity: Up to three years in prison for openly identifying as LGBTQ.
- Ban on promotion and support: Up to ten years for promoting, sponsoring, or funding LGBTQ activities.
- Mandatory reporting: Citizens are required to report suspected violations to the police.
- Dissolution of LGBTQ organizations: All groups advocating for LGBTQ rights must disband.
- Criminalization of allies: Parents, teachers, journalists, and healthcare workers who support LGBTQ rights can be prosecuted.
The bill also targets gender-affirming healthcare and prohibits any form of advocacy for non-conventional sexual relations. Ghana's colonial-era sodomy laws previously criminalized same-sex acts, but the new legislation significantly broadens the scope of punishment.
Political and Social Context
President Mahama, who took office in January 2025, has indicated he will sign the bill into law, unlike his predecessor Nana Akufo-Addo, who allowed the original 2024 version to expire after legal challenges. The bill enjoys broad support from religious leaders, including the Catholic Bishops' Conference, the Christian Council, and the National Chief Imam, who argue it protects Ghanaian family values and cultural norms. However, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice has warned the bill infringes on fundamental freedoms.
Growing Wave of Anti-LGBTQ Laws in Africa
Ghana joins a growing list of African nations tightening restrictions on LGBTQ rights. More than 30 of Africa's 54 countries criminalize same-sex acts. Uganda, Mauritania, and Somalia impose the death penalty for homosexuality, while Senegal recently increased its maximum sentence to ten years. Burkina Faso is also considering similar legislation. The trend has sparked concern among international human rights organizations and Western governments.
Human Rights Concerns and International Reaction
Human Rights Watch has condemned the bill, warning it will lead to "severe violations of fundamental rights and increased discrimination against sexual minorities." The organization notes that the bill "criminalizes empathy and threatens all Ghanaian citizens by requiring reporting of suspected queer individuals." Ghana's finance minister previously cautioned that the legislation could jeopardize billions of dollars in international financing and development aid. The European Union's response to anti-LGBTQ laws in Africa has included reduced cooperation with countries that pass such legislation.
What Happens Next?
The bill now goes to President Mahama for assent. Given his public statements supporting the measure, it is widely expected to become law. Once signed, it will take effect immediately, triggering a 90-day period for LGBTQ organizations to dissolve. Legal challenges are anticipated, but the Supreme Court previously rejected two cases against the 2024 version of the bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Ghana anti-LGBTQ bill say?
The bill criminalizes identifying as LGBTQ (up to 3 years in prison) and promoting or supporting LGBTQ activities (up to 10 years). It also requires citizens to report suspected violations and forces LGBTQ organizations to dissolve.
Has President Mahama said he will sign the bill?
Yes, President John Dramani Mahama has publicly stated he supports the bill and will sign it into law, unlike his predecessor who allowed the 2024 version to expire.
How does this compare to other African countries?
Over 30 African countries criminalize same-sex acts. Uganda, Mauritania, and Somalia impose the death penalty. Senegal recently increased its maximum sentence to 10 years. Ghana's new law is among the strictest in West Africa.
What has been the international reaction?
Human Rights Watch and other organizations have condemned the bill. Ghana's finance minister warned it could cost the country billions in international financing. The European Union and United States have previously reduced cooperation with countries passing similar laws.
Can the law be challenged in court?
Legal challenges are expected, but the Supreme Court rejected two cases against the 2024 version. The current bill may face similar hurdles, though the court's previous rulings suggest it may survive scrutiny.
Sources
This article is based on reporting from NOS, Human Rights Watch, Associated Press, and Modern Ghana. For further reading, see Human Rights Watch's analysis and Modern Ghana's coverage.
Follow Discussion