Ghana applauded for progress in fight against gender-based violence
The International Human Rights Protection Service (IHRPS) has commended Ghana for the steady progress it has made in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), describing the country as a shining example of commitment to women’s rights and empowerment on the African continent.
At the launch of the Advocacy, Coalition Building, and Transformative Feminist Action (ACT) campaign in Accra, the National President of IHRPS, Divine Akotia, praised the government and civil society for their roles in shaping policies and laws that protect women from abuse, discrimination and marginalisation.
Mr Akotia noted that while Ghana continues to face challenges in addressing GBV, its proactive legal and institutional measures such as the Domestic Violence Act, the establishment of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service, and various community-level interventions have created a strong foundation for sustainable progress.
“At IHRPS, we believe that human rights begin at home, in our communities and in our institutions. Violence against women, whether physical, psychological, economic or sexual, represents one of the gravest violations of human rights in our time. It undermines development, fractures families and silences the very voices that hold the promise of transformation in our society,” he said
Mr Akotia emphasised that combating gender-based violence is not only a moral duty but also a key driver of national development.
He explained that when women and girls live free from fear and oppression, they are better able to contribute meaningfully to the economy, education and community leadership.
“A nation cannot reach its full potential if half of its population continues to live under threat. Protecting women’s rights is not just a women’s issue, it is a national development imperative,” Mr Akotia stated.
He further appealed to men and boys to take an active role in challenging stereotypes, cultural practices and social norms that perpetuate inequality and normalise violence.
According to him, progress will only be sustainable when men become advocates and defenders of women’s rights, both in public and in private life.
“We cannot change society by excluding half of it. Men must rise to the challenge and say no to violence, no to silence and no to systems that diminish the dignity of women,” Mr Akotia noted.
The organisation reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with government agencies, including the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, to implement policies that protect women’s rights and promote gender equality.
“The journey to ending violence against women is long, but every action counts. Together, through education, advocacy and empathy, we can build a Ghana where every woman’s voice is heard, valued and protected,” Mr Akotia added.
Representatives from various civil society organisations, women’s groups and government agencies who attended the launch echoed the call for a coordinated national response. They emphasised the need for continuous funding, capacity building and education at the grassroots level to strengthen the fight against gender-based violence.
