In a recent speech delivered at the European Parliament on April 24, 2024, Virginijus Sinkevičius, the European Union Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, representing High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell, addressed the concerns surrounding Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Act, commonly known as the anti-LGBTIQ Bill.
Highlighting Ghana’s status as a solid democracy and a stabilizing force in the region, Mr. Sinkevičius acknowledged the country’s positive steps in human rights protection, including recent efforts towards abolishing the death penalty.
However, he also noted existing challenges, particularly in safeguarding the rights of sexual minorities.
The passing of the anti-LGBTIQ Bill in Ghana’s Parliament has raised concerns both domestically and internationally. The Bill is currently under scrutiny by the Supreme Court regarding its constitutionality. Moreover, it awaits presidential assent to become law.
He said the European Union, alongside its Member States, has closely monitored the developments surrounding the Bill since its introduction in 2021.
Despite the passage of the bill by Ghana’s Parliament, Mr. Sinkevičius expressed confidence in Ghana’s commitment to human rights, citing public statements from the President and senior government officials highlighting concerns about potential setbacks in human rights and financial implications.
Ghana’s role in ensuring regional stability and its evolving partnership with the EU were also emphasized. He said the EU values Ghana’s commitment to shared interests, including support for a rules-based multilateral order and the abolition of the death penalty.
The speech concluded with a reaffirmation of the EU’s partnership with Ghana, highlighting mutual respect for human rights and a commitment to follow Ghana’s promising path in upholding universal values.
Source: GraphicOnline
