“The bill maintains the existing penalty of up to three years in prison for same-sex sexual acts.”
Ghana has moved back into the global spotlight after lawmakers approved a controversial bill that tightens restrictions on LGBTQ-related activities, triggering debate inside the country and concern abroad. The legislation, known as the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, was passed by Ghana’s parliament through a voice vote after receiving strong backing from the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee. The bill retains existing penalties of up to three years in prison for same-sex sexual acts.
It also introduces new penalties targeting what lawmakers describe as the “promotion, funding, or sponsorship” of LGBTQ activities, with prison terms ranging from three to five years. Another key provision introduces a reporting requirement. Individuals who fail to report prohibited LGBTQ-related activities could face up to three years in prison under the proposed law.
The bill also amends Ghana’s Extradition Act, meaning offenses covered under the legislation could potentially be treated as extraditable crimes. This is not the first time Ghana has attempted to pass such legislation. An earlier version was approved by parliament in 2024, but it never became law after facing legal and political complications before the end of former president Nana Akufo-Addo’s tenure.
The latest version gained renewed momentum after the return of President John Dramani Mahama. Lawmakers reportedly moved forward under pressure from religious leaders and supporters who have consistently backed the bill. Attention is now shifting to the presidency. President Mahama is expected to face growing pressure from both supporters of the bill and international human rights groups as he considers whether to sign it into law. The decision could shape Ghana’s global reputation and influence its diplomatic relationships.
The development also reflects a broader regional trend. Several West African countries have recently moved toward stricter laws on LGBTQ issues, sparking similar debates across the region. Supporters of such laws argue they protect cultural and religious values. Critics say they increase discrimination and could deepen human rights concerns.
Ghana has long been seen as one of West Africa’s more stable democracies, with a history of peaceful political transitions and relatively strong institutions. That reputation now faces fresh scrutiny as the bill moves closer to becoming law. Religious groups in the country have been among the strongest supporters of the legislation, while rights organizations and international observers continue to raise concerns.
The debate is no longer only legal or political. It now sits at the intersection of culture, governance, and international pressure. For now, parliament has completed its part of the process. The final decision rests with the president.
And as that decision approaches, Ghana finds itself at the center of one of the most closely watched policy debates in the region. Feel free to let us know your thoughts in the comments section.
