Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing gender equality and strengthening access to justice for women and girls, as the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, addressed the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW).

Delivering a keynote address at the high-level global gathering, Dr. Lartey highlighted Ghana’s ongoing legal and institutional reforms aimed at eliminating discrimination and promoting equal opportunities for women and girls across the country.

She noted that Ghana continues to make steady progress through key policy frameworks, including the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act and the National Gender Policy, which guide government actions toward achieving gender equality and strengthening women’s rights.

According to the Minister, these frameworks are helping to shape a more gender-responsive justice system in Ghana.

She explained that efforts are underway to equip judicial officers with the necessary training to handle gender-related cases more effectively, while also empowering women and girls with knowledge of their rights so they can seek justice without fear or barriers.

Dr. Lartey further indicated that the government has expanded legal aid services and strengthened institutions responsible for promoting gender equality, ensuring that women—particularly those in vulnerable communities—can access legal support when needed.

Addressing the issue of gender-based violence, the Minister said Ghana has introduced institutional reforms and survivor-centred approaches to improve reporting, investigation and case management.

She added that specialised units and inter-agency collaborations are being strengthened to better respond to cases of abuse and violence against women and girls.

“These efforts are aimed at ensuring that survivors receive the support and justice they deserve while perpetrators are held accountable,” she emphasised.

Dr. Lartey acknowledged, however, that despite the progress made, challenges remain in fully achieving gender equality and ensuring universal access to justice for women and girls.

She stressed that Ghana remains determined to deepen reforms, strengthen institutions and expand opportunities that will empower women and girls to participate fully in national development.

The Minister also reiterated Ghana’s commitment to working with international partners, Civil Society Organizations and development agencies to accelerate progress toward gender equality and the protection of women’s rights.