Ghana Passes Harsh Anti-LGBTQ+ Law

Ghana's parliament has approved a strict new anti-LGBTQ+ bill. The law now waits for the president's signature. If signed, it will become official Ghanaian law.

The bill is very serious for LGBTQ+ people in Ghana. It does not only target gay and transgender people. It also criminalizes being an ally. This means people who support LGBTQ+ rights can also be punished.

An ally is someone who helps or supports LGBTQ+ people. Under this new law, that support could lead to arrest. Friends, family members, and activists could all be at risk. Even organizations that help LGBTQ+ people could face legal trouble.

Human rights groups around the world are alarmed. They say this law goes further than most anti-LGBTQ+ laws in other countries. Criminalizing allyship is a rare and dangerous step. It creates fear not just in the LGBTQ+ community, but in all of society.

Ghana has long had laws against same-sex relationships. But this new bill makes things much worse. It introduces prison sentences for a wider group of people. Legal experts say the law could affect thousands of Ghanaians.

International pressure is growing on Ghana's president. Many governments and human rights organizations are asking him not to sign the bill. The United Nations has also expressed deep concern. They say the law violates basic human rights.

LGBTQ+ Ghanaians are living in fear. Many are afraid to speak openly. Some are considering leaving the country. Activists inside Ghana are trying to challenge the law in court. But the legal road ahead is very difficult.

This bill has been years in the making. It was first introduced in 2021. It faced delays and international criticism. But now it has passed through parliament. The final decision lies with the president.

The global LGBTQ+ community is watching closely. Advocates say this is one of the most dangerous anti-LGBTQ+ laws passed in recent years. They are calling for urgent international action to protect LGBTQ+ people in Ghana.