Dr. Ishmael Dodoo urges Ghana to prioritize developmental impact over economic ramifications of anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Dr. Ishmael Dodoo urges Ghana to prioritize developmental impact over economic ramifications of anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Dr. Ishmael Dodoo, an African Human Development Expert formerly with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Executive Vice President of CO2 Capital Africa Development, has underscored the imperative for Ghana to scrutinize the developmental repercussions, rather than solely focusing on the economic fallout, of the proposed anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

His assertion is premised on the fact that Ghana, according to the Finance Ministry, stands to lose some $3.8bn in financing from the IMF and World Bank over the next five to six years.

Speaking at the NorvanReports and Economic Governance Platform (EGP) X Space on the topic “Potential Economic Impact of Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQI Bill”, Dr. Dodoo articulated concerns regarding potential distortions to the country’s development thereby impacting its peace, progress, and overall societal well-being.

This is because, in his view, the country engages the Bretton Wood Institutions and other development partners on developmental issues because the country wants sustainable development.

Speaking further on the X Space discussion, Dr. Dodoo cautioned against being held hostage by the bill’s economic implications, advocating instead for a holistic approach that prioritizes socio-economic reforms.

Acknowledging the importance of human rights considerations within the bill, he emphasized the need to preserve Ghana’s cultural principles, values, religion, and sovereignty.

“The bill in its current form should not be assented by the President because the human rights imperatives in the bill must be looked at, but not at the compromise of the country’s cultural principles, values, religion, and sovereignty,” he quipped.

Dr. Dodoo’s perspective highlights the delicate balance required in navigating the complexities of the anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. As Ghana grapples with this contentious issue, the nation faces the challenge of reconciling human rights imperatives with cultural identity and developmental aspirations, shaping the trajectory of its socio-economic landscape.