Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill will spark fear and hatred – UNAIDS

The Joint United Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has contended that the Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill (the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill) will create fear and hatred among Ghanaian citizens when finally passed into law.

UNAIDS explained that the goal of ending AIDS by 2030 will be impossible if the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill becomes law, as it will hinder freedom of speech, freedom of movement, and freedom of association, thereby causing violence among Ghanaians.

In a statement, it stated that Ghana’s development and success will be endangered because it will block access to life-saving services and social protection.

“To achieve the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, it is vital to ensure that everyone has equal access to essential services without fear, stigma, or discrimination and that providers of life-saving HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services are supported in their work.”

“Evidence shows that punitive laws like this bill are a barrier to ending AIDS and ultimately undermine everyone’s health,” it added.

Meanwhile, following the bill that has been passed in Parliament, Rightify Ghana has called on President Akufo-Addo to repeal the bill as it is against human rights and freedom enshrined in the Constitution.

According to Rightify Ghana, the bill will create inequalities and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, which will make it difficult for them to have access to essential services in the country.

“It infringes on fundamental human rights such as freedom of speech and expression, the right to privacy, freedom of association, freedom of assembly, and more.

“Moreover, the bill threatens to exacerbate existing inequalities by further marginalising LGBTQ+ individuals and restricting their access to essential services such as education, healthcare, housing, and employment.”

It has therefore urged President Akufo-Addo to protect the supremacy of the constitution of Ghana by preserving the values of democracy.

“President Akufo-Addo must stand firm in defending the rights and dignity of all Ghanaians, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.” Rightify Ghana, which has been vocal against the bill since its introduction, said in a statement on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021, also known as the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, was passed in Parliament on February 28, 2024. The bill criminalises the promotion, advocacy, funding, and identification of LQBTQ+ individuals.

Advocates, defenders, activists, promoters, and donors of LGBTQ+ activities would face a 3–5-year jail term.