Key Takeaways
- Parliament has been urged to continue prioritizing human rights in its legislative, oversight, and representative functions.
- The call was made by MP for Wa West, Peter Lanchene Toobu, on the International Day of Parliamentarianism.
- Toobu emphasized the importance of protecting the dignity, freedoms, and rights of every Ghanaian.
Ghana's Parliament has been encouraged to place human rights at the forefront of its activities, with a focus on promoting inclusive national development and strengthening the country's democracy.
The call was made by MP for Wa West, Peter Lanchene Toobu, on the International Day of Parliamentarianism, which was celebrated under the theme 'Bring Human Rights into Focus.'
Background & Context
The International Day of Parliamentarianism is an annual observance established by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and endorsed by the United Nations.
The day aims to promote the role of parliaments in promoting human rights, democracy, and development.
In Ghana, Parliament has a constitutional duty to protect the dignity, freedoms, and rights of every citizen, as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution.
Parliament's Human Rights Record
Over the years, Parliament has made significant strides in advancing human rights through legislation, oversight, and representation.
Landmark laws passed by Parliament include the Children's Act, Domestic Violence Act, Human Trafficking Act, Persons with Disabilities Act, and the Right to Information Act.
These laws have improved access to justice, promoted gender equality, protected vulnerable groups, and safeguarded freedom of expression and association.
Emerging Challenges and Future Directions
However, emerging challenges such as poverty, inequality, insecurity, climate change, and rapid digital transformation require Parliament to ensure that development and national security measures do not undermine human dignity and inclusion.
Toobu highlighted the need for stronger, more responsive, and inclusive parliamentary institutions capable of addressing contemporary challenges.
He called for Parliament to continue strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions by ensuring that its processes remain accessible, transparent, and responsive.
Looking Ahead
Parliament is currently considering the Community Service Bill, 2026, which seeks to reduce congestion in correctional facilities while promoting the welfare of inmates.
Toobu expressed optimism that the commemoration would inspire parliamentarians to work together to preserve the democratic gains of the Fourth Republic and further strengthen Ghana's Parliament as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
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