CRPL-Ghana slams anti-LGBTQ+ bill, urges Parliament to protect rights and religious freedom

CRPL-Ghana has petitioned Parliament's Committees on Constitutional and Legal Affairs and Human Rights to reject the proposed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, describing it as discriminatory and a threat to fundamental freedoms. In a memorandum addressed to Mahama Shaibu, Chairperson of the Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs, and Ernest Yaw Anim of the Committee on Human Rights, the organisation outlined religious, cultural and academic objections to the legislation. CRPL-Ghana stated its "honest and strongest opposition" to the bill in its entirety, arguing that its provisions are "grievously and deadly discriminatory" and could lead to injustice, abuse and public health concerns.

The organisation stated that "the bill risks marginalising LGBTQ+ individuals and could trigger psychological, emotional and physical harm, as well as broader societal instability." CRPL-Ghana contended that the bill contradicts core teachings of Christianity and Islam, citing biblical and Islamic principles of love, compassion and equality. The organisation also challenged cultural justifications for the bill, noting that "Ghana does not have a single, unified cultural standard." CRPL-Ghana rejected comparisons between LGBTQ+ individuals and criminals. The memorandum highlighted concerns about potential public health implications, including mental health challenges and stigma. It also questioned provisions requiring individuals to report suspected LGBTQ+ persons to authorities, citing ethical dilemmas and breaches of confidentiality.

CRPL-Ghana warned that the bill could undermine academic freedom as guaranteed under Article 21(1)(b) of Ghana's 1992 Constitution. It argued that restricting research, teaching, and publication on human sexuality and gender studies would stifle knowledge production and intellectual discourse.