Ghana passes bill making identifying as LGBTQ+ illegal

On August 12, 2021, Ghana’s Parliament passed a bill that criminalizes identifying as LGBTQ+ in the country. The bill, known as the LGBTQ+ Bill, makes it illegal to identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or any other non-heterosexual or non-cisgender identity.

Under the new law, individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ can face up to 5 years in prison. Additionally, anyone who supports or advocates for LGBTQ+ rights can also be prosecuted.

The passing of this bill has sparked outrage and concern among human rights organizations and LGBTQ+ activists both in Ghana and around the world. Many see this as a violation of human rights and a step backwards for LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

Despite the backlash, the Ghanaian government has defended the bill, stating that it is necessary to protect the country’s cultural and moral values.

It remains to be seen how this new law will be enforced and what impact it will have on the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana.