The Deputy Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Ms. Mercy Larbi, has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to human rights and stressed the crucial role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process.
She made the remarks at the opening of a two-day UPR Civil Society Midterm Review Workshop in Accra, organised by the POS Foundation in collaboration with key stakeholders.
The workshop brought together representatives from government ministries, development partners, the diplomatic community, CSOs, and the media to assess Ghana’s progress in implementing recommendations from its most recent UPR cycle.
“Pivotal Moment” for Human Rights
Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Larbi commended the POS Foundation and participating organisations for their dedication to promoting and protecting human rights in Ghana.
“Your presence and participation in this UPR process is a testament to the strength of our collective resolve. This workshop is a pivotal moment, an opportunity for reflection, evaluation, and strategic planning halfway through Ghana’s UPR cycle,” she said.
She noted that Ghana’s active engagement in the UPR reflects the country’s commitment to upholding international human rights standards, stressing that the mechanism thrives on the involvement of a broad range of actors, including CSOs, the judiciary, Parliament, academia, the media, and the United Nations system.
Role of Civil Society
The Deputy Commissioner highlighted the vital contribution of CSOs in the UPR framework, particularly in monitoring the human rights situation, analysing progress, identifying gaps, and pushing for reforms.
“CSOs act as observers, holding duty-bearers accountable and giving voice to the voiceless. This collaboration is the lifeblood of the human rights agenda,” she said.
Ms. Larbi added that the midterm review process was essential for strengthening accountability and ensuring that commitments made internationally translate into real improvements in the lives of Ghanaians.
“The human rights of Ghanaians are not abstract concepts. They are the foundation of democracy and the promise of a dignified life for all,” she stated.
She urged participants to engage in open and constructive dialogue and contribute to a comprehensive civil society midterm report that reflects the realities on the ground.
The two-day workshop will produce a consolidated civil society midterm report, which will feed into Ghana’s national reporting process ahead of the next UPR cycle.
Participants at the opening included officials from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Attorney-General’s Department, the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, UNFPA, the Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana (PPAG), and several human rights-focused CSOs.
