Ghana abstained from a key United Nations Human Rights Council vote on July 7, 2025, concerning the renewal of the mandate for the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). The vote concluded with 29 member states in favor, 15 against, and three abstentions—Ghana, India, and Cameroon. The mandate, first established in 2016, plays a pivotal role in monitoring and reporting on the human rights of LGBTQ+ individuals globally. Its renewal underscores the UN’s ongoing commitment to combating homophobia, transphobia, and all forms of discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Ghana’s abstention is drawing attention due to rising domestic tensions over LGBTQ+ rights. In May 2025, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin reiterated plans to revive the controversial Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill. The bill, originally introduced in 2021, seeks to criminalize same-sex relationships, increase penalties for LGBTQ+ conduct, and ban advocacy or support for LGBTQ+ causes. If passed, the legislation would impose sentences of up to 10 years in prison.
The UN vote came on the heels of a global advocacy campaign involving over 1,200 civil society organizations calling for continued support of the Independent Expert’s work. While the mandate was successfully extended, Ghana’s abstention reflects its cautious diplomatic posture amid growing international scrutiny and pressure over its domestic human rights record. Ghana has long faced criticism from rights groups for its anti-LGBTQ+ laws, with homosexuality still criminalized under Section 104 of the Criminal Offences Act. The proposed bill has sparked protests both locally and abroad, with concerns that it could fuel violence and further marginalize LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Ghanaian government has yet to issue an official explanation for its abstention. Meanwhile, the international community continues to monitor developments as Ghana balances internal political pressures with its obligations under international human rights frameworks.
