Across several African nations like Senegal and Ghana, a “long wave” of increasingly draconian anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is being enacted, often intensifying colonial-era penalties. In Ghana, lawmakers are currently advancing the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. If passed, this proposed legislation would legally mandate professionals, such as teachers and journalists, to enforce anti-LGBTQ+ measures under the guise of protecting family values. Research indicates that this surge is significantly fueled by foreign influence, particularly from US-based right-wing groups that have invested millions of dollars in efforts to influence politics across the continent. Local politicians often utilize these laws as a strategic “political football” to consolidate power and gain popularity with electorates.
Date: April 8, 2026. Source: theguardian.com