The atmosphere in Ghana has turned ominous for the LGBTQ+ community following the passage of a severe anti-LGBTQ+ bill by the nation’s parliament. The legislation, which could impose prison sentences of up to a decade for identifying as LGBTQ+ or for supporting related activities, has left many fearing for their safety, livelihoods, and basic human rights. As the bill awaits the signature of President John Dramani Mahama, activists and community members brace themselves for the impending fallout.
A Bill with Wide-Ranging Consequences
On June 1, 2026, Ghana’s parliament approved a sweeping bill that criminalises not just the identities of LGBTQ+ individuals but also any form of support or advocacy for their rights. The law stipulates prison sentences of three to ten years for those found guilty of promoting LGBTQ+ activities, as well as for those who fail to report suspected LGBTQ+ individuals. This draconian legislation marks a significant escalation in the persecution of the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana, which already operates under colonial-era laws that prohibited same-sex relationships but were rarely enforced.
The bill’s sponsor, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, claimed during parliamentary discussions that the law seeks to uphold Ghanaian family values and cultural integrity. However, many see it as a direct attack on personal freedoms, risking the safety and wellbeing of thousands.
Community in Survival Mode
In response to the new law, LGBTQ+ individuals and allies are scrambling to protect themselves from potential repercussions. Leila Lariba, director of One Love Sisters Ghana, expressed the palpable panic within the community. “People are scared,” she stated emphatically. “They fear eviction, job loss, and denial of healthcare services. Everyone is reviewing their online presence to keep their identities hidden.”
Such fears are not unfounded. Activists report an uptick in hostility against LGBTQ+ individuals, with many already facing harassment and violence. The chilling effect of the legislation has led to a wave of self-censorship, as community members are urged to erase any traces of their identities from social media to avoid becoming targets.
The Wider Implications of the Legislation
While medical professionals and lawyers have been exempted from prosecution for providing services to LGBTQ+ individuals, the overall stigma fostered by the law poses a significant barrier to accessing essential services, particularly in health care. Health advocacy groups warn that the law could deter individuals from seeking necessary medical care, including HIV testing and treatment.
Ebenezer Peegah, director of Rightify Ghana, articulated the far-reaching implications of the bill. “This legislation criminalises identity and threatens civil society operations. It not only targets LGBTQ+ individuals but also their allies, including journalists and healthcare providers,” he warned. Peegah highlighted the grim reality faced by many who now consider fleeing the country, expressing concern that the international community has turned a blind eye to their plight.
A Conference of Controversy
The passage of the bill coincides with Ghana hosting the fourth African inter-parliamentary conference on family values and sovereignty, which runs from June 3-6. This event, the first to be held in Ghana after a series of meetings in Uganda—known for its extreme anti-LGBTQ+ laws—has drawn criticism for its role in promoting such oppressive legislation. Activists argue that the bill serves as a “gift” to the conference, further entrenching anti-L
