Every year on December 10, the world comes together to observe Human Rights Day, a commemoration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the United Nations in 1948. For us Ghanaians, this day serves as a reminder of our collective commitment to uphold and protect the basic rights and freedoms of every individual, regardless of our background. This year’s theme, “Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All,” resonates deeply within the Ghanaian context, where ongoing efforts to promote equality and social justice are crucial to national development.
In Ghana, human rights take center stage in conversations about education, healthcare, and social justice. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), as of 2022, approximately 20% of Ghanaians still live below the poverty line, facing challenges that threaten their basic rights to food, shelter, and access to education. Despite these challenges, the country has made strides in ensuring fundamental freedoms. The establishment of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has been instrumental in addressing human rights violations, including abuse, discrimination, and corruption. Yet, the road ahead requires every Ghanaian to actively engage in safeguarding these rights.
For the ordinary Ghanaian, Human Rights Day is a time for reflection and action. The right to quality education, for example, is still a pressing issue, especially in underserved regions. In northern Ghana, nearly 32% of children aged 6 to 14 are out of school, highlighting the need for policies that prioritize inclusive education. I had a conversation with a past student leader of the University of Cape Coast on Human Rights Day.
Access to healthcare is another area where human rights are at stake, with rural communities often lacking adequate medical facilities. Observing this day means advocating for these essential rights, not just through government action but through community support and individual commitment to creating equitable opportunities.
Celebrating Human Rights Day can also be an opportunity to educate and empower. Schools, religious institutions, and community groups across Ghana can host events to raise awareness about the importance of human rights in daily life. From organizing workshops on the rights of women and children to discussing the implications of human rights violations, these activities can inspire change at the grassroots level. For instance, addressing gender-based violence, which affects one in three Ghanaian women, according to the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), requires sustained advocacy and education to foster a culture of respect and accountability.
As we mark Human Rights Day, let us remember that the principles of dignity, freedom, and justice begin with us. Ghanaians can prioritize the celebration by actively participating in community-driven initiatives, holding leaders accountable, and supporting organizations that champion human rights. By doing so, we not only honor the global call for justice but also strengthen the foundation for a fair and inclusive society for future generations. The journey to protecting human rights is ongoing, and together, we can ensure that no one is left behind.
#HumanRightsDay #StandUp4HumanRights #EqualityForAll #JusticeForAll #UniversityOfCapeCoast #HumanRightsMatter
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