Ghana has finally passed its Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act 2024, nearly 30 years after the bill was introduced. The law mandates that women hold at least 30% of decision-making roles in government, trade unions, and private industries. Additionally, it aims to increase the percentage of women in these roles to 50% by 2030, in line with the UN’s gender equality objectives. It also includes penalties for gender-based discrimination, stereotyping, or victimization, with fines and possible jail terms for offenders. Women’s rights advocates are celebrating the law’s passage; however, concerns remain about its enforcement. The law arrives just ahead of Ghana’s general elections in December, where it is expected to boost women’s participation in politics, both as voters and as candidates.
SOURCE: BBC
