Ghana Parliament Passes Controversial Bill Expanding Restrictions on LGBTQ Activities

Ghana’s Parliament has approved a controversial piece of legislation that significantly expands restrictions related to LGBTQ activities, reigniting debate both within the country and internationally.

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, was passed by lawmakers following strong backing from religious organizations and conservative groups that argue the measure is necessary to protect what they describe as traditional family and cultural values.

Under the bill, same-sex sexual relations remain punishable by imprisonment, while additional penalties are introduced for individuals accused of promoting, sponsoring, funding, or advocating LGBTQ-related activities. The legislation also includes provisions requiring citizens to report certain prohibited acts to authorities.

Supporters of the measure say it reflects the beliefs and social norms of a large segment of Ghanaian society. However, human rights organizations and civil society groups have criticized the bill, arguing that it could lead to increased discrimination, limit freedom of expression, and undermine protections for minority groups.

The legislation revives an earlier version that was approved by Parliament in 2024 but was never enacted into law after legal challenges and the end of the previous parliamentary term. The latest version now awaits presidential assent before it can take full effect.

The development places Ghana at the center of a broader regional conversation, as several African countries have recently introduced or strengthened laws relating to homosexuality and LGBTQ rights. The issue continues to generate strong opinions across political, religious, and human rights circles both within Africa and beyond.