People ‘panicking’ as Ghana passes sweeping law criminalising LGBTQ+ activity
Summary
Ghana's parliament passed a new law that makes it illegal to identify as LGBTQ+ or promote LGBTQ+ activities, with prison sentences from three to 10 years. The law has caused fear among LGBTQ+ people in Ghana, who worry about losing their homes, jobs, and access to healthcare.Key Facts
- The law criminalizes identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+) with up to three years in prison.
- Promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities can result in up to 10 years in prison.
- Ghanaian president John Dramani Mahama is expected to sign the bill into law.
- The law requires people to report anyone suspected of being LGBTQ+.
- Healthcare workers and lawyers are exempt from prosecution for providing services to LGBTQ+ individuals, but stigma may prevent people from seeking help.
- The new law also targets allies, including supporters, service providers, and advocates.
- LGBTQ+ people in Ghana report increased fear, eviction, job loss, and online censorship due to the law.
- Ghana hosted an African conference on family values alongside the timing of the bill’s approval.
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