GIS launches policy against sexual harassment

A policy has been launched in Accra aimed at ensuring that Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) staff work in a safe environment, free from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH).

Named Protection from SEAH (PSEAH) would ensure that perpetrators of these acts against immigration officials, including civilian employees, are held accountable.

It was formulated in accordance with the National Gender Policy and the provisions of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantee equality and freedom from discrimination.

Speaking at the launch, the Comptroller General of the (CGI) of GIS, Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi, said the policy underlined the GIS’s unwavering commitment in creating a harmonious working environment.

“In line with Ghana’s vision of true justice, equity and respect for human dignity, GIS will not accept or tolerate sexual harassment in its workplace or any work-related location,” he said.

Mr Takyi noted that with the development and adoption of the Ghana National Gender Policy by the Executive Council in 2015, sexual harassment and gender-based violence are now recognized as issues requiring attention.

The CGI underlined that the agency had established a robust strategic framework for implementing, monitoring and ensuring the effectiveness of the policy.

To achieve the objective of the policy, Mr Takyi said the GIS would work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure its effective implementation and enforcement.

On her part, the Deputy Director for Gender of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), Mrs. Vera Kakari Bediako, stressed that the purpose of the Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH) policy was to provide an effective framework to investigate allegations and reports of harassment by or against agency officials.

She said the policy would help provide the victims of SEAH with the necessary psychosocial support and emergency assistance when needed.

She emphasized the importance of encouraging women to break their silence on harassment and create an environment where everyone feels safe and respected.

“We welcome this policy, which empowers survivors to speak out and ensures their concerns are heard and addressed,” she stressed.

To educate individuals on how to report SEAH incidents, the Head of GIS Public Affairs Unit, Chief Inspector Michael Amoako-Atta, stated that victims could report SEAH incidents through an online GIS reporting form and by post.

He advised victims to keep records of the dates, times and details of what happened to ensure the agency took effective action.

“We will make a deliberate effort to let community members and our stakeholders know that this policy exists. If you go to our website now, you can access these policies,” he said.

In attendance were representatives from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ghana, the High Commission of Canada, GIS, MoGCSP and key public sector players

BY AGNES OWUSU