** Ghana: The tragic consequences of witchcraft charges **
In Ghana, thousands of women face an alarming reality: the accusation of witchcraft. The report of the NGO Amnesty International, recently presented, highlights a complex societal phenomenon which leads many people to exile and, tragically, to death. This situation raises fundamental questions about the protection of human rights and the responsibility of the State.
** A disturbing socio -cultural context **
The accusations of witchcraft are not a novelty, but they take on a disturbing scale in certain regions of Ghana, particularly in the north and northeast of the country. Why are these charges mainly against women, often over the age of 50, so frequent? Among the reasons put forward, the stigma of women who deviate from societal or economically successful standards seems to play a central role. Michèle Eken, senior researcher at Amnesty International, stresses that these women are often the first to be designated as guilty in unhappy events, thus strengthening the cycle of fear and repression.
The notion of witchcraft, anchored in cultural beliefs, can take tragic dimensions when it is mixed with community tensions. In an environment of competition or crisis, the female scapegoat becomes an appeal both to express frustrations and to designate a target. This approach is indicative of a human need to identify a manager, even if this is done at the expense of humanity of certain members of the community.
** Alarming living conditions **
Samadu Sayibu, a member of the NGO Songtaba, testifies to the trying life of women living in camps such as that of Kukuo. These places, often dilapidated and precarious, bring together people who have lost their home and their dignity. The loss of employment and the psychological impact on these women are considerable. The difficulty in recovering normal life once excluded from their community is accentuated by the absence of adequate legislation.
The Amnesty International report indicates a notable state failure to protect the fundamental rights of these victims. Without laws specifically criminalizing the accusations of witchcraft, these women find themselves in a situation of permanent insecurity. In addition, the absence of awareness -raising and institutional support campaigns leaves them in increased vulnerability.
** The needs of proactive legislation **
The current situation calls for in -depth reflection on the need for adapted legislation. As mentioned in the report, a bill to protect the rights of people accused of witchcraft could be studied by Parliament during 2025. This initiative could represent a decisive turning point in the fight against stigma and violence against women. However, it is crucial that this project is formulated in collaboration with civil society actors, who know the local issues well.
But legislation alone is not enough. It is imperative to support these initiatives with a true political will and a cultural change in order to deconstruct the harmful beliefs that justify these abuses. Awareness of communities on human rights and the implementation of psychosocial services are also essential to create a security and respect environment.
** In search of lasting solutions **
It is obvious that the exile and the death of people accused of witchcraft in Ghana reveal deep dysfunctions within society. The consequences of these accusations go far beyond the individuals concerned, affecting the social fabric as a whole. A real commitment to the protection of human rights must be adopted so that such tragedies do not happen again.
To this end, it is crucial to encourage inclusive dialogues where all voices, especially those of affected women, can be heard. Change in mentalities and behaviors is a slow but necessary process. The fascination for the mystery of witchcraft should not result in cruel and inhuman acts.
In short, the fight against the accusation of witchcraft in Ghana requires a multifaceted approach integrating education, legislation and a deep respect for human rights, in order to pave the way to the security and dignity of all people, regardless of beliefs or personal circumstances. This process is essential to establish real respect for human life and peaceful coexistence, fundamental elements of a just and equitable society.