Ghana has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that justice is accessible to all women and girls, highlighting the central role of a fair legal system in achieving equality, human rights, and sustainable development.
The statement was made by Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, at the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) at the United Nations in New York on March 8, 2026, coinciding with International Women’s Day.
“Justice for women and girls is both a legal obligation and a foundation for equality, peace, and sustainable development,” Dr Lartey told world leaders during her address, emphasizing that meaningful gender equality requires a justice system that works for everyone.
The Minister outlined a series of reforms Ghana has implemented in recent years to strengthen gender equity, including the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act of 2024, the National Gender Policy (2025–2034), the Social Protection Act of 2025, and the Environmental Protection Act of 2025.
Ghana has also integrated gender considerations into cybersecurity and land governance frameworks.
Dr Lartey said the country is actively building capacity across the justice system. Judicial officers, law enforcement personnel, social service providers, and paralegals are being trained to handle cases involving women and girls with greater efficiency and sensitivity.
In addition, community-level initiatives are equipping women and girls with the knowledge and tools to assert their rights and seek redress.
On tackling gender-based violence, the Minister highlighted the establishment of specialized units within the Ghana Police Service and gender desks at national and local levels.
Collaboration among the judiciary, social services, and civil society organizations has been intensified to enhance reporting, case management, and prosecution of offences targeting women.
Acknowledging persistent challenges, Dr Lartey admitted that social, economic, and structural barriers continue to hinder access to justice for many women and girls. She urged sustained political will and international cooperation to address these obstacles.
Closing her remarks, Dr Lartey reaffirmed Ghana’s determination to create an inclusive justice system.
She pledged that the country will continue working with global partners to dismantle discriminatory laws, challenge harmful social norms, and ensure that justice is tangible and equitable for every woman and girl.
