Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now

On this International Human Rights Day 2024, we reflect on the universal principles of equality, dignity, and justice for all. The theme "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" serves as a powerful reminder that human rights are not abstract ideals but tangible entitlements that must shape every aspect of our society.
This year marked a significant milestone for Ghana, with generally peaceful general elections held on December 7, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to democratic principles.  Democracy and human rights are deeply intertwined; one cannot flourish without the other. However, we must also recognize that democracy reaches its full potential only when the rights of every individuals — especially those who have been historically marginalized and disadvantaged — are protected and promoted. Ghana, as a newly elected member of the Human Rights Council, is in a key position to lead on ensuring that human rights are ‘a lived reality’ for everyone in Ghana. 

Human Rights: The Foundation of a Just Society
Human rights are the cornerstone of progress and unlocking potential. They empower individuals to live with dignity and to contribute meaningfully to society. They ensure that no one is excluded based on their gender, ability, age, socio-economic or other status. And they serve as a guiding framework for addressing inequality, discrimination, and injustice.

This year, Ghana made significant strides in advancing human rights as it witnesses its first female Vice President elect and passage of the Affirmative Action Bill, signifiers of steps towards achieving gender equality and women’s representation in leadership. The largely peaceful elections reaffirmed Ghana’s status as a leader in democratic governance and efforts to improve access to education and healthcare have helped strengthen the foundations of a rights-based society. 
Yet, challenges remain. As reports from the recent elections show, accessibility for persons with disabilities remains an issue and there is a clear need for more inclusive policies to access public spaces, education, and employment. Marginalized communities still face systemic inequities, particularly with regards to key populations. Rural communities need investments that address their unique challenges, from inadequate healthcare infrastructure to limited access to technology. These are not just development goals — they are human rights imperatives and will support Ghana to fulfil the human rights recommendations that it has accepted, including its most recent Universal Periodic Review.

Turning Policies into Realities
Ghana has made commendable progress in developing human rights frameworks. Yet policies alone are not enough — they must be implemented effectively. Moreover, it is essential to assess whether existing and new legislation meets the standards set by Ghana’s Constitution and its regional and international human rights commitments.

To make human rights a lived reality, Ghana must:
1.    Invest Resources: Adequate funding, infrastructure, and trained personnel are essential to support the implementation of human rights policies.
2.    Strengthen Capacities: Institutions, including Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice and the National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-up, and the Human Rights Committee must be further equipped with the resources, knowledge and tools to address systemic challenges.
3.    Engaged Communities: Policymaking and implementation must be participatory, ensuring that the voices of marginalized groups shape solutions tailored to their needs.
The recently-passed Affirmative Action Gender Bill offers an excellent opportunity to start a meaningful journey to achieve parity.

The Power of Human Rights Education
Education remains one of the most powerful tools for change. By strengthening awareness of human rights, we can challenge harmful practices, empower marginalized groups, and strengthen societal resilience. For policymakers and law enforcement, training on human rights principles ensures decisions and actions that reflect Ghana’s commitment to dignity and fairness. For young people (Ghana’s largest demographic and critical for progress), human rights education empowers them to become active citizens who advocate for change, contribute to addressing injustice, and build a future rooted in respect for all. 
A Call to Action
On this Human Rights Day, let us renew our commitment to upholding the rights for everyone in Ghana. Governments, civil society, the private sector, comunities and individuals must work together to ensure that human rights are not just aspirations but lived realities.
The United Nations in Ghana, recognizing the transformative force of human rights, is proud to support initiatives that advance human rights, from promoting inclusive governance to strengthening human rights education. We remain steadfast in our partnership with the government, civil society, and communities of Ghana to build a nation where the rights of all are respected, protected, and fulfilled.
Human rights are not a gift — they are a guarantee. By taking bold action today, we can create a future where every person in Ghana can live with dignity, equality, and opportunity.
The time to act is now. Our rights, our future, right now.