Ghana chose to abstan from a vote on LGBTQ protection against violence

Ghana has abstained from a vote by the UN Human Rights Council that renewed the mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The mandate is said to remind states of their obligations to respect, protect, and fulfill the rights of people with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

The vote took place on July 7, 2025, during the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council and was renewed despite Ghana’s abstention.

Following a campaign by 1,259 non-governmental organizations from 157 states and territories, 29 members voted in favor of the renewal, 15 voted against, and 3, including Ghana abstained.

Ghana’s abstention from the vote appears to be linked to the country’s ongoing efforts to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities.

In May 2025, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin hinted of the reintroduction of the anti-LGBT bill in parliament.

The Bill aims to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, as well as the promotion, advocacy, or funding of such activities.

If passed, the Bill would increase the maximum prison sentence for same-sex sexual acts from three to five years and impose jail time for promoting or supporting LGBTQ+ activities.

MAG/EB

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