Ghana’s parliament has approved a new legislation that imposes strict penalties for individuals identifying as LGBTQ+. Under the new law, individuals convicted of identifying as LGBTQ+ face up to three years in prison, while those involved in forming or funding LGBTQ+ groups could receive a maximum jail term of five years.
Efforts to substitute prison sentences with community service and counseling were rejected by lawmakers. The bill garnered support from Ghana’s major political parties and will only become law if President Nana Akufo-Addo signs it.
President Akufo-Addo had previously expressed willingness to sign the bill into law if it reflected the desires of the majority of Ghanaians. In Ghana, homosexual activity is already illegal and carries a three-year prison sentence.
Human rights activists have voiced concerns that the new legislation could lead to persecution and witch-hunts targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and their advocates. They warn that some may be forced into hiding to avoid persecution.
