Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains a pervasive challenge in Ghana, with alarming statistics revealing its widespread prevalence. Approximately 24.4% of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner, and 31.9% of women have faced at least one form of domestic violence—whether physical, economic, psychological, social, or sexual.
Despite legislative measures such as the Domestic Violence Act of 2007, systemic gaps persist in addressing this issue effectively. To combat GBV and create a safer environment for women and girls, a multifaceted approach is required.
Cultural Norms and Social Structures: Deeply ingrained patriarchal norms often perpetuate violence against women and girls. Many communities still view women as subordinate, making it difficult to challenge discriminatory practices.
Inadequate Institutional Support: Agencies like the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) lack sufficient resources to provide effective support to survivors.
Limited Awareness and Compliance: Although laws exist, awareness about these laws and their enforcement remains weak, particularly in rural areas.
The Way Forward
To end GBV in Ghana, a comprehensive strategy that combines legal, social, and community-based interventions is essential.
1. Strengthening Community-Based Interventions
• Programs like the Rural Response System (RRS), which uses Community-Based Action Teams (COMBAT), have shown promise in reducing GBV through grassroots engagement. These teams are trained to raise awareness, provide support to survivors, and challenge harmful social norms.
• Empowering communities to select their own representatives for such initiatives ensures local ownership and sustainability.
2. Expanding Education and Awareness Campaigns
• Non-formal education programs should be implemented to educate both men and women about gender equality and the harmful effects of GBV.
• Schools should integrate gender-sensitive curricula to challenge stereotypes from an early age
3. Enhancing Legal Enforcement
• Strengthen the capacity of law enforcement agencies to handle GBV cases effectively.
• Ensure that survivors have access to justice by reducing barriers such as high legal costs or fear of stigma.
4. Increasing Funding for Support Services
• Allocate more resources to shelters, counseling services, and hotlines for survivors.
• Provide financial assistance to organizations working on GBV prevention and survivor support.
5. Promoting Economic Empowerment
• Economic dependence often traps women in abusive relationships. Providing skills training and financial opportunities can help women gain independence.
6. Engaging Men as Allies
• Programs targeting men should focus on redefining masculinity in ways that promote respect for women.
• Encourage male role models to advocate against GBV within their communities.
Ending GBV in Ghana requires a collective effort from government agencies, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and individuals. By addressing systemic inequalities, promoting community-led solutions, and ensuring robust legal enforcement, Ghana can create a society where women and girls live free from violence and discrimination.