The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced that it will provide comments on the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill after it is officially signed into law.

The IMF states that its evaluation will specifically focus on the economic and financial consequences of the legislation.

In a released statement, the IMF emphasized its commitment to diversity and inclusion as integral values. “We cannot comment on a bill that has not yet been signed into law and whose economic and financial implications we have yet to assess.”

The institution underscores its internal policies prohibiting discrimination based on personal characteristics, including gender, gender expression, or sexual orientation.

"Diversity and inclusion are values that the IMF embraces.”

“Our internal policies prohibit discrimination based on personal characteristics, including but not limited to gender, gender expression, or sexual orientation. Like institutions, diverse and inclusive economies flourish,” the statement from the Fund added.

The IMF asserts that diverse and inclusive economies thrive, aligning with its principles.

This statement follows the recent passage of the bill by Ghanaian lawmakers on March 28, with support from both the ruling party and the opposition.

The legislation aims to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities, along with their promotion, advocacy, and funding.

Offenders may face jail terms ranging from 6 months to 5 years, depending on the nature of the violation.

Acknowledging the significance of the situation, the IMF states that it is closely monitoring developments in Ghana. However, it refrains from commenting on a bill that has not been signed into law, pending a comprehensive assessment of its economic and financial implications.

Ghana, facing economic challenges and seeking an IMF bailout, may see uncertainties in securing the third tranche due to the recent legislation.

The country's dollar bonds have experienced a decline, ranking as the second-worst performers in an index monitoring emerging-market sovereign hard-currency debt.

All 14 of Ghana's dollar notes in the gauge saw a drop in value, with bonds maturing in 2034 experiencing the most significant impact.

Pressure is mounting on President Akufo-Addo to assent to the bill amid these developments.