Ghana’s parliament recently passed a controversial bill, the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values” legislation, which significantly strengthens penalties against LGBTQ+ individuals and activities.
While the immediate focus has been on its social ramifications, concerns are also rising about its potential impact on streaming platforms like Netflix, Showmax, and Amazon Prime – which have gain significant grounds in Ghana.
The main concern is whether the bill, which criminalizes “promotion” of LGBTQ+ rights, will restrict these platforms from offering content featuring same-sex relationships to Ghanaian audiences.
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Section 3(2)(i) of the bill mandates the media industry to “promote and protect Ghanaian family values.” The full section reads, “The media and Creative Art Industry shall within the jurisdiction n of the person or institution, promote and protect the proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values specified in Section(2) of the Act“.
However, the law’s reach and enforceability regarding international streaming services remain unclear.
Whereas it can be argues that the government – through the National Media Commission – by virtue of this bill CAN regulate the content of local television; will they be able to regulate that of international platforms like DStv, Amazon Prime and Netflix?
Even if platforms are restricted, experts believe individuals might resort to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access the content, making effective regulation of private viewing habits challenging.
This raises the question of the bill’s effectiveness in achieving its stated goals. While it may suppress public displays of LGBTQ+ identities and content, it’s unlikely to completely restrict private access or fundamentally change individual beliefs.
Here are some popular shows with LGBTQ+ themes that could be impacted, if the bill is interpreted to restrict such content:
- Heartstopper (Netflix): A coming-of-age story about two gay teenagers navigating love and self-discovery.
- Sense8 (Netflix): A sci-fi drama following eight characters around the world who are mentally and emotionally connected.
- Sex Education (Netflix): A comedy-drama exploring the lives of teenagers as they deal with various issues related to sex and relationships, including LGBTQ+ identities.
- Schitt’s Creek (Netflix): A comedy following a wealthy family who loses everything and must rebuild their lives in a small town, featuring openly pansexual characters.
While the ultimate impact of the bill on streaming platforms remains uncertain, it has sparked concerns about potential censorship and its effectiveness in achieving its intended goals.
Backed by Ghanaian Christian and Muslim leaders, the bill now awaits President Nana Akufo-Addo’s signature. While his position is unknown publicly, many anticipate his approval.