Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Ghana’s Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, has underscored Ghana’s dedication to advancing gender equality and strengthening access to justice for women and girls during her address at the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW).
Speaking before distinguished delegates, Dr. Lartey emphasized that ensuring justice for women and girls is both a legal obligation and a moral imperative, central to achieving peace, equality, and sustainable development. “Justice remains a critical pillar for achieving equality, peace and full realization of human rights and sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind,” she stated.
She highlighted Ghana’s progress through deliberate legal and policy reforms, including the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act, the National Gender Policy, the Social Protection Act, the Cyber Security Act, the Land Act, and the Environmental Protection Act. These frameworks, she noted, are designed to eliminate discrimination and expand access to justice.
Dr. Lartey also pointed to Ghana’s investments in building gender-responsive justice systems, such as training judicial officers, law enforcement agencies, social service providers, and paralegals to handle cases involving women and girls with sensitivity. Community engagement initiatives are being intensified to empower women with knowledge of their rights.
On combating gender-based violence, she cited the establishment of specialized units within the Ghana Police Service, operational gender desks nationwide, and stronger collaboration among the judiciary, social welfare services, and civil society organizations. These measures, she said, are improving reporting, case management, and prosecution.
While acknowledging progress, Dr. Lartey stressed that more must be done to dismantle discriminatory laws and harmful social norms. She reaffirmed Ghana’s readiness to work with partners at national, regional, and global levels to transform justice systems in line with international commitments.
“In conclusion, Ghana remains firmly committed to building an inclusive and equitable justice system that upholds the rights and dignity of all women and girls. We look forward to a future where access to justice is not merely an aspiration but a lived reality for every woman and girl,” she declared.
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