Ghana has abstained from a United Nations Human Rights Council vote to renew the mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The vote, which took place on Monday, July 7, 2025, during the Council’s 59th session, saw 29 member states vote in favour, 15 against, while Ghana was among three countries that abstained.

The renewed mandate reinforces a global call for member states to uphold the human rights of people with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, urging governments to respect, protect, and fulfill their obligations under international law.

Ghana’s decision to abstain comes against the backdrop of renewed domestic efforts to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities.

In May 2025, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, announced plans to reintroduce the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill, which had previously sparked both local and international debate.

The proposed legislation seeks to criminalise same-sex relationships, as well as the promotion, advocacy, or funding of LGBTQ+ causes.

If passed, the bill would increase the maximum prison sentence for same-sex sexual acts from three to five years and impose jail terms for those who publicly support or promote LGBTQ+ rights.

The UN vote followed a campaign by 1,259 non-governmental organisations across 157 countries and territories calling for the mandate’s renewal.

Despite Ghana’s abstention, the vote passed, reinforcing the international community’s commitment to combating violence and discrimination against LGBTQ+ persons.