The United States of America has voiced its apprehension regarding the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-gay bill, by Ghana’s Parliament on Wednesday, February 28.
The bill, which faced numerous debates, contributions, and opposition, has raised concerns about its potential impact on various aspects of Ghanaian society.
In a statement, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the potential adverse effects of the bill’s passage on Ghana’s public health, media, civic spaces, and economy. Miller emphasized that the legislation contradicts Ghana’s tradition of tolerance, peace, and respect for human rights, which have long served as a model for other nations. He called for a review of the bill to ensure the protection of the rights of all individuals in Ghana.
“Ghana’s tradition of tolerance, peace, and respect for human rights is a source of stability and prosperity that has long served as a model for countries around the globe. This legislation is inconsistent with these values and will, if it becomes law, undermine this laudable tradition,” Miller stated.
The statement from the US underscores the significance of upholding human rights and tolerance in maintaining stability and prosperity within societies. It also signals international concern over the potential impact of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill on Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of tolerance and respect for human rights.
Below is the spokesperson’s full statement.
Ghanaian Parliament’s Passage of Legislation Undermines Human Rights
Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson
The United States is deeply troubled by the Ghanaian Parliament’s passage of legislation, officially called the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which would threaten all Ghanaians’ constitutionally protected freedoms of speech, press, and assembly.
The bill seeks to criminalize any person who simply identifies as LGBTQI+, as well as any friend, family, or member of the community who does not report them. Limiting the rights of one group in a society undermines the rights of all.
The United States echoes the call by those Ghanaians who have urged a review of the constitutionality of the bill to protect the rights of all individuals in Ghana.
The bill would also undermine Ghana’s valuable public health, media and civic spaces, and economy. International business coalitions have already stated that such discrimination in Ghana would harm business and economic growth in the country.
Ghana’s tradition of tolerance, peace, and respect for human rights is a source of stability and prosperity that has long served as a model for countries around the globe. This legislation is inconsistent with these values and will, if it becomes law, undermine this laudable tradition.