Sexuality and the law: the disproportionate impact of the Ghanaian anti-LGBTQIA+ bill

The complex interactions between historical, cultural, and sociopolitical elements that have influenced Ghana's sexual landscape are examined in this thesis. It explores the long-lasting effects of colonialism on sexual norms and behaviors, the power of the media and religion, the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and the development discourse on African sexuality. Additionally, it looks at how Ghana's legal system disproportionately impacts homosexual men as opposed to women, highlighting gender differences in the nation's attitudes toward sexual orientation. It expands on the newly proposed bill on LGBTQIA+ and delves into the impacts the law would have on an already marginalized group. Ghana's colonial past permanently altered people's views on sexuality and Conservative ideals were established by British colonial control, which helped to further reinforce traditional gender roles and stigmatize non-heteronormative sexualities. The current sexual culture in Ghana is still influenced by these traditions. Ghanaian sexual narratives are significantly shaped by the media, while some media channels support prejudice and discrimination, others provide a forum that has been politicized to sway the citizenry by engaging non-cultural agendas about homosexuality in Ghana. Religion, especially Islam and Christianity, has a big influence on how Ghanaians think and act in reference to sexuality. Moral conservatism and hostility to conversations about sexual diversity are frequently the results of religion teachings being entwined with traditional values. The HIV/AIDS pandemic marked a turning point in Ghana's history of sexual orientation. To address the illness, the government and international development organizations started campaigns, but by endorsing stereotypes about homosexuality and providing funds that supported a distorted narrative, they unintentionally influenced sexual discourse. Notably, Ghana's judicial system shows a marked difference in harshness toward gay males underscoring significant gender differences in the nation's treatment of sexual orientation. The criminalization of homosexuality has a disproportionately negative impact on men and increases the LGBTQ+ community's susceptibility to abuse, violence, and prejudice. This thesis concludes by providing a thorough analysis of the ways that media, religion, development discourse, and historical legacies have influenced Ghanaian sexuality. To guarantee the protection and acknowledgment of the rights of all Ghanaians, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity, it emphasizes the necessity for a more inclusive and equal legal framework.