Statelessness is a pervasive yet often overlooked issue in Ghana, leaving countless individuals without the rights and recognition they deserve. At HRAC, we recognize that statelessness is not just a human rights concern but a development challenge that hinders Ghana’s democratic progress. Our project, Stateless in a State, seeks to highlight the struggles of stateless persons and drive meaningful policy changes to ensure their rights are upheld. By engaging communities and policymakers, HRAC is committed to addressing the legal and social gaps contributing to this issue, advocating for inclusivity and justice for all.
Through extensive community engagement, we are raising awareness and fostering dialogue about statelessness. Sensitization workshops and forums in Accra, Sunyani, and Tamale bring together stakeholders from the Ministry of Interior, immigration officials, UNHCR, and media representatives to explore the legal implications and human impact of statelessness. These discussions are designed to create actionable plans, including documenting stateless individuals and enabling their access to essential social services. Our goal is to empower communities and inspire stakeholders to champion the rights of stateless persons, setting Ghana on a path toward equitable development.
A centerpiece of our project is the documentary, Who Am I in This Country?, which provides an unflinching look at the lived experiences of stateless persons in Ghana. Featuring refugees from Sierra Leone, Togo, Ivory Coast, and Liberia, the film sheds light on their struggles to secure basic rights and services. By sharing their stories, we aim to humanize the issue and evoke empathy, galvanizing public support and policy action. This powerful narrative underscores the state’s responsibilities and calls for urgent reforms to address the systemic challenges faced by stateless individuals.
Public awareness campaigns amplify our message, leveraging traditional and digital media to educate and engage a broad audience. Collaborations with TV and radio stations ensure that the voices of stateless persons reach every corner of the country. Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are pivotal in engaging younger demographics and fostering a national dialogue. By partnering with influencers and running targeted advocacy campaigns, HRAC is building momentum for change, ensuring that statelessness remains a priority on Ghana’s development agenda.
HRAC’s commitment to eradicating statelessness aligns with global goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Abidjan Declaration. Our advocacy not only seeks to influence Ghana’s accession to international conventions on statelessness but also aims to revitalize regional efforts to end statelessness by 2024. With the support of our partners and stakeholders, we are determined to create a Ghana where no one is left stateless, affirming our belief in equality, justice, and the inherent dignity of all people.