Executive Summary

Despite the passage of the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill in July 2023, Ghana has yet to enact it into law, leaving vulnerable women accused of witchcraft without legal protection. This delay perpetuates human rights abuses and highlights the need for urgent legislative action to safeguard lives and align with international standards.

Historical and Cultural Roots of Witchcraft Accusations

In Ghana, witchcraft accusations are deeply entrenched in cultural beliefs and practices, often emerging in response to unexplained tragedies like illness or death. These accusations disproportionately target older women, particularly those living in poverty or with disabilities, who are perceived as deviating from traditional gender norms. Such accusations have led to violence, displacement, and severe human rights violations.

While Ghana ratified international treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in 1986, harmful practices linked to witchcraft accusations persist. Informal camps have become the only refuge for accused individuals, offering inadequate living conditions and limited access to essential services. The tragic lynching of Akua Denteh in 2020 underscored the urgent need for legal reforms to address this issue.

Policy Motivations and Legislative Challenges

The Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill, passed by Ghana’s parliament in July 2023, aimed to criminalize witchcraft accusations, provide protective measures for victims, and establish pathways for justice and reparations. However, constitutional concerns raised by former President Nana Akufo-Addo prevented the bill from becoming law, as it was introduced as a private member’s bill rather than a government initiative. This procedural hurdle has stalled progress, leaving victims vulnerable.

Advocacy groups like Amnesty International and Songtaba emphasize the bill’s alignment with international human rights standards, including protections against discrimination and violence. The delay in enacting the bill reflects broader challenges in prioritizing gender equity and addressing harmful cultural practices within Ghana’s legislative framework.

Beyond criminalization, experts advocate for a holistic approach that includes public awareness campaigns, social reintegration programs, and economic support for victims. These measures are essential to dismantle stereotypes and address the root causes of witchcraft accusations, ensuring sustainable change.

Impact on Migrants

The delay in enacting the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill underscores the need for urgent legislative action to protect victims and address harmful cultural practices. By adopting a comprehensive approach that includes legal reforms, public awareness, and social reintegration, Ghana can pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive society. The future of human rights in Ghana hinges on its ability to prioritize the safety and dignity of all its citizens.