Ghana Takes Bold Step: Parliament Passes Bill Criminalizing LGBTQ Promotion

Ghana's parliament approved a new bill that criminalizes the promotion of LGBTQ activities, following pressure from religious leaders and supporters. The bill introduces significant penalties for same-sex acts and related promotions, and amends the Extradition Act to make such offenses extraditable.

In a significant move, Ghana's parliament has approved a bill criminalizing the promotion of LGBTQ activities, reflecting a widespread crackdown on sexual minorities across West Africa. The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, was passed on Friday through a voice vote, as reported by first deputy speaker Bernard Ahiafor.

Initially introduced after President John Dramani Mahama assumed office last year, the bill's passage comes amid mounting pressure from religious leaders and supporters. This version of the bill was adopted after a unanimous recommendation from the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee.

While a similar bill had faced legal challenges under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, the newly approved legislation enforces severe penalties for same-sex acts and prohibits funding, sponsorship, or promotion of LGBTQ activities. The bill aligns with a wave of similar legislative actions in the region, including recent laws in Senegal and Burkina Faso targeting LGBTQ communities.