ORAL STATEMENT
International Humanist and Ethical Union
UN Human Rights Council, 37th Session (27th February – 23rd March 2018)
UPR on Ghana
LGBTI rights in Ghana are heavily suppressed. Violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation are common, often encouraged by the media and religious and political leaders. We are most disappointed to note Ghana’s rejection of several recommendations aimed at decriminalizing same-sex relations between consenting adults and adopting measures to put an end to discrimination and violence against LGBTI communities.
The situation of women in Ghana is most perilous. Harmful practices involving women and girls, such as genital mutilation, witchcraft, forced marriage, domestic violence and rape, are widespread. Women’s rights to inheritance, property ownership and active participation in public life are precarious. Whilst we commend Ghana for accepting recommendations to tackle these issues of gender inequality and to end all forms of discrimination and violence against women, we would like to point out that implementing legislation is insufficient and needs to be combined with awareness-raising and educational programmes.
The progress already made by Ghana regarding protection of Children’s Rights is impressive and exemplary for its region. However, progress that has been realised regarding education and the reduction of poverty must presently be implemented in other areas which are still problematic for children. Consequently, we are glad to note Ghana’s acceptance of recommendations to eliminate harmful practices such as child labour, sexual exploitation, early and forced marriage, violence and corporal punishment.
People with albinism are marginalised and discriminated against and are often denied basic rights such as access to education, healthcare and employment, the right to political participation, social and family life and freedom of movement. Many superstitious myths and beliefs put the lives of people with albinism at constant risk, leaving them in endless fear. We are therefore disappointed with Ghana’s rejection of recommendations to establish measures and policies to address the stigmatization of persons with albinism and to ensure they are effectively protected against discrimination.
'UPR statement on Ghana', Humanists International