Parliament passes controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill
Parliament has passed the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, reigniting national and international debate over LGBTQ rights, human rights protections and constitutional freedoms.
The bill, which has been one of the country’s most polarising legislative proposals in recent years, was approved by lawmakers on Thursday after months of renewed parliamentary consideration. The legislation seeks to criminalise LGBTQ-related activities, advocacy and what it describes as the promotion of “non-conventional sexual relations.”
The passage of the bill marks a significant moment in Ghana’s political and social landscape, drawing praise from religious groups and conservative organisations while attracting criticism from human rights advocates and members of the international community.
Under the proposed law, individuals found engaging in same-sex relations could face custodial sentences, while persons or organisations accused of promoting, funding or advocating LGBTQ activities may also face sanctions.
The bill was reintroduced in the Ninth Parliament after an earlier version passed in 2024 failed to receive presidential assent before the dissolution of the previous Parliament.
Debate on the floor of the House was marked by strong opinions from both supporters and opponents of the legislation. Proponents argued the bill reflects Ghanaian cultural, moral and family values, insisting the country has the sovereign right to determine its social direction.
Opponents, however, warned that parts of the legislation could infringe on constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, association and protection from discrimination.
Several civil society organisations and international human rights bodies have previously raised concerns about the potential implications of the bill, cautioning that it could deepen stigma, discrimination and fear among minority groups.
The development is also expected to draw attention from Ghana’s international partners, especially amid previous warnings from global rights organisations and foreign governments over the possible economic and diplomatic consequences of the legislation.
Attention now turns to President John Dramani Mahama, who will decide whether to assent to the bill or return it to Parliament for reconsideration.
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill has remained one of the most publicly debated pieces of legislation in Ghana since it was first introduced in 2021, reflecting deep divisions over culture, religion, governance and human rights in the country.
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