Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ+ bill’s potential impact on your Netflix shows

The passage of the controversial "Human Sexual Rights and Family Values" legislation by Ghana's parliament has raised concerns about its potential impact on streaming platforms like Netflix, Showmax, and Amazon Prime, which have gained significant popularity in the country.

The passage of the controversial “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values” legislation by Ghana’s parliament has raised concerns about its potential impact on streaming platforms like Netflix, Showmax, and Amazon Prime, which have gained significant popularity in the country.

The focus is on whether the bill’s provisions, particularly those criminalizing the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights, will restrict these platforms from offering content featuring same-sex relationships to Ghanaian audiences.

Section 3(2)(i) of the bill mandates the media industry to promote and protect Ghanaian family values, but the extent of its reach and enforceability regarding international streaming services remains unclear.

While the government may have the authority to regulate content on local television through the National Media Commission, it’s uncertain whether they can enforce regulations on international platforms like DStv, Amazon Prime, and Netflix.

Even if platforms are restricted, individuals might turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access the content, making effective regulation of private viewing habits challenging. This raises questions about the bill’s effectiveness in achieving its goals, as it may not completely restrict private access or change individual beliefs fundamentally.

Several popular shows with LGBTQ+ themes could be impacted if the bill is interpreted to restrict such content, including “Heartstopper,” “Sense8,” “Sex Education,” and “Schitt’s Creek.” These shows explore themes of love, identity, and relationships, including LGBTQ+ representation.

The bill, backed by Ghanaian Christian and Muslim leaders, awaits President Nana Akufo-Addo’s signature. While his position on the matter is unknown publicly, many anticipate his approval, signaling potential challenges for LGBTQ+ representation in Ghana’s media landscape.