Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Accra, Ghana — The absence of government-operated shelters for victims of domestic violence is undermining efforts to protect survivors and combat abuse in Ghana, stakeholders have warned.
The concern emerged during a sensitisation workshop organised by the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Ghana) in Accra to discuss the effective implementation of the Domestic Violence Fund (DV Fund) and strengthen support systems for survivors of abuse.
Participants at the workshop identified access to safe shelter as one of the most pressing challenges facing victims who seek to escape abusive relationships and environments.
According to stakeholders, many survivors remain trapped in violent situations because they have nowhere to go after leaving their homes. In the absence of publicly funded shelters, victims often rely on relatives, friends, or a limited number of privately operated facilities.
They argued that without safe accommodation and emergency support services, many survivors are forced to return to their abusers, increasing their vulnerability to further violence and trauma.
The workshop brought together policymakers, civil society organisations, legal practitioners, media professionals and gender advocates to explore ways of strengthening Ghana’s response to domestic violence.
Discussions also focused on the need to improve access to justice through the Domestic Violence Fund, which was established under the Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732) to support victims seeking medical, legal and social services.
Executive Director of FIDA-Ghana, Susan Aryeetey, noted that financial constraints continue to prevent many survivors from pursuing justice.
She explained that the costs associated with medical reports, legal processes and other support services often place justice beyond the reach of vulnerable individuals.
Participants further stressed the importance of public education and awareness campaigns to encourage reporting of domestic violence cases and discourage communities from resolving such matters privately.
They also called for stronger collaboration between government institutions, corporate organisations and civil society groups to mobilise resources for victim support services.
A key recommendation from the meeting was the establishment of dedicated shelters across the country to provide temporary accommodation, counselling and.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
