Women in Politics: Ghana 2025
Introducing a New GWNP Narrative Theme: Women in Politics
Organized by Ms. Aincre Maame-Fosua Evans, DPhil History (African History) Oxford
Historically, women have been systematically excluded from formalised politics, notably party politics and parliamentary involvement. Consequently, to meaningfully grasp the scope and depth of women's political engagement, it's essential to adopt a broader interpretation of 'politics.' A view that encompasses not only traditional political activities but also the challenges to authority through civil society initiatives, women's organizations, mobilization for political objectives, and participation in demonstrations.
Recognizing and valuing women's narratives within these broader political activities is crucial. These stories not only illuminate women's unique strategies and resilience in the face of systemic exclusion but also enrich our understanding of political movements as a whole. By incorporating women's narratives into our study of politics, the GWNP underscores how we can more accurately appreciate and pedestal women’s multifaceted roles in shaping political discourse and action beyond conventional boundaries.
Country Focus: Ghana
The GWNP team will interview women who were politically active in the 1990s and made significant contributions to women's rights movements and the creation of the Ghanaian women's manifesto in 2004. Despite extensive documentation of these organizations and their goals, the personal stories, sacrifices, and challenges faced by the women behind these movements remain largely untold.
Image: Celebrating Dr. Rose Mensah Kutin, 2018, Martin Luther King Award for her work around women’s rights and her role in women’s organizing in Ghana.
We aim to bring these narratives forward to their deserved place of prestige, offering insight into the resilience and dedication of these women in Ghana. By doing so, we hope to inspire and foster a supportive environment for future generations of women to continue this critical work.
Concerns of note
There is growing concern about the sustainability and intergenerational renewal of these civil society groups in Ghana and across West Africa, which have historically levied significant challenges to governmental authorities and politicians attempting to undermine women's rights initiatives in the country.
A common sentiment expressed is that the government, unable to silence or eliminate these women, merely waits for their influence to wane with time. The recorded stagnation in attracting younger generations to these organisations and to civil society groups may stem from the daunting personal sacrifices involved.
Women in this field frequently face abuse, assault, misogyny, targeted smear campaigns, and repercussions that affect their personal relationships. Yet, these stories that place women and their narratives at the forefront of their political struggle are seldom highlighted.
Many of these organizations operate without government subsidies due to historically strained relationships with the Ministry of Women and Gender, which often prioritises state interests. This dynamic has evolved from a state-centric feminist framework, further complicating the possibility of support.
Consequently, these groups increasingly rely on limited international grants and funding opportunities—a challenge exacerbated by the scarcity of resources within the nonprofit sector and the pushback against feminism/ a growing post-feminist sentiment in the country more generally.
This financial strain may lead women within these organisations to prioritise the significance of their work over personal narratives, a trend in interviews that has underscored the costs absorbed by those committed to advancing women's rights in Ghana.