A recent survey by Rightify Ghana found that 94.3 per cent of the 218 sexual and gender minority respondents feared stigma and discrimination during the 2024 elections. The study, titled Navigating Democracy, covered participants from six regions and included 176 survey responses and 42 focus‑group or key‑informant interviews.
Despite the high level of fear, 64.8 per cent of respondents still went to the polls. Participation in other political activities was lower: 26.1 per cent joined campaigns and 20.5 per cent took part in policy discussions, while 30.1 per cent reported never engaging in any civic activity.
Executive Director Ebenezer Peegah warned that the democracy remains “not inclusive” and called for parties to campaign on issues rather than targeting groups. He noted that 56.8 per cent of respondents felt political campaigns affected them negatively, with 42.6 per cent describing the impact as very negative.
Respondents cited multiple barriers: after stigma, 61.9 per cent listed safety concerns, 47.2 per cent cited family or community pressure, and 36.9 per cent mentioned perceived legal restrictions. Other obstacles included lack of information (33.5 per cent) and economic barriers (32.4 per cent).
The study also highlighted broader patterns: 78.4 per cent felt unsafe participating in civic life, 75.6 per cent reported facing or witnessing discrimination, and 72.7 per cent said they see misinformation very often.
Rightify Ghana is training Equality Envoys in the Ashanti Region to document rights abuses before the 2028 elections and to monitor political statements that may incite fear. The group also runs an early‑warning system to educate citizens on signs of democratic backsliding.
Peegah urged political parties to focus on national issues such as unemployment and infrastructure, noting that LGBTQ+ citizens pay taxes and have the right to vote and be elected under the Constitution.
