New Law Sparks Controversy

Ghana, a conservative West African nation, has recently passed a controversial law that further restricts LGBTQ+ rights. The legislation, which imposes harsh penalties, has raised concerns among activists and human rights organizations.

Key Provisions of the Law

Criminalization of Advocacy: The new law criminalizes LGBTQ+ advocacy, imposing a maximum five-year jail term for forming or funding LGBT groups. It also targets campaigns aimed at children, proposing up to 10 years in jail for those involved.
Encouraging Reporting: The legislation encourages the public to report LGBTQ+ community members to authorities for “necessary action.” This provision has raised fears of potential witch-hunts and discrimination.
Response to Community Center: The bill was drafted in response to the opening of Ghana’s first LGBTQ+ community center in the capital, Accra, in January 2021. Police shut down the center following public protests and pressure from religious bodies.

Controversy and Opposition

Religious Opposition: The Christian Council of Ghana and other religious bodies strongly oppose LGBTQ+ rights, considering them “alien to the Ghanaian culture and family value system.”
Watered-Down Version: The approved bill is a watered-down version of an earlier draft. Jail terms have been shortened, and a controversial clause on conversion therapy has been removed.
Debate on Sentencing: During the days-long parliamentary debate, lawmakers discussed whether convicted LGBTQ+ individuals should be imprisoned or undergo community service and counseling.

International Concerns

Amnesty International Warning: Last month, Amnesty International warned that the bill “poses significant threats to the fundamental rights and freedoms” of LGBTQ+ people in Ghana.
Human Rights Implications: Activists fear that the law will lead to discrimination, harassment, and the need for LGBT individuals to go into hiding.

Conclusion

While the law awaits President Nana Akufo-Addo’s signature to come into effect, it reflects a growing trend of opposition to LGBTQ+ rights in Ghana. The impact on the LGBTQ+ community remains a matter of concern both nationally and internationally.

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