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Representatives of the United Kingdom and United States at the United Nations Human Rights record review in Geneva, Switzerland have called on the government of Ghana to protect the rights of minority groups in Ghana, particularly the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) community. Both representatives outlined a number of issues that need to be addressed, with the protection of the LGBTQ+ community being a common concern in both speeches.
The representative of the United States government specifically tasked the government, which was represented by the Attorney General, to oppose the anti-LGBTQ+ bill currently being debated in Ghana’s Parliament as it is discriminatory. While commending Ghana for its efforts in upholding democratic principles and contributing to the provision of security in the sub-region, the US representative raised concerns about growing corruption in the country.
The representative from the United Kingdom also condemned reports of abuse of members of the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana and charged the government to take measures to address the situation. They also recommend Ghana to expand the provision of basic health service and social protection, hold those who harass and intimidate journalists accountable and uphold international human rights obligations including rights of LGBTQ+ people.
In response to these concerns, Ghana’s Attorney General, Godfred Dame, assured that the government will do everything possible to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana. He stated, “Ghana is committed to ensuring the protection of all persons from violence.”
It is worth noting that Ghana’s Parliament is currently debating an anti-LGBTQI+ bill which seeks to criminalize activities of persons who identify as lesbian, gay, transgender, transsexual or queer. The bill also criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities in the country. The international community is watching the developments in Ghana closely and it is important that the government takes the recommendations of the United Kingdom and United States seriously in order to ensure that the rights of all individuals, including the LGBTQ+ community, are protected in Ghana.
