The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, is officially set to be introduced for its first reading in Ghana’s Parliament. Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, made the announcement during the opening of Parliament’s second meeting of the Ninth Parliament.
“Three private members’ bills—the Property Rights of Spouses Bill, the Constitution Amendment Bill, and the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill—have completed all required procedures and are ready for first reading during this session,” Speaker Bagbin stated.
The bill proposes to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, including the promotion, advocacy, and funding of such activities. It has been at the center of heated debates both locally and internationally, with human rights advocates raising concerns over its implications on freedom of expression and personal rights.
Although the bill was passed by the Eighth Parliament, it did not receive presidential assent under former President Nana Akufo-Addo. As a result, it never became law. With its reintroduction in the Ninth Parliament, the bill is expected to reignite debates on the balance between cultural values, constitutional freedoms, and international human rights obligations.
Now that the bill has cleared the necessary procedural steps, it is expected to be laid before Parliament in the coming days. Lawmakers will then begin formal deliberations, potentially setting the stage for one of the most divisive legal debates in Ghana’s recent history.
As Parliament prepares to consider the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill once more, all eyes will be on Ghana’s lawmakers. The outcome of this legislative process could have far-reaching effects on the country’s legal framework, international relations, and cultural identity.