TUC Urges Employers to Invest in Women, Calls for Stronger Gender Equality Measures

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) Ghana has called on employers to invest in women by implementing gender-friendly policies that promote workplace equity and economic growth. The Union emphasized that empowering women is not only a social necessity but also a strategic move that benefits businesses and the national economy.

In a statement signed by the Secretary General of the TUC, Mr. Joshua Ansah, the Union highlighted the invaluable contributions of women in various sectors, from corporate boardrooms to marketplaces, and stressed the need for policies that create an enabling environment for their success.

“When women thrive, Ghana thrives,” the statement noted, urging all stakeholders to recognize women’s issues as national issues.

While commending the government for passing the Affirmative Action Act 2024, the TUC called for accelerated efforts toward gender equality. The Union expressed concern over persistent workplace discrimination, exploitation, and violence against women and called for immediate action to address these challenges.

As part of its advocacy, the TUC urged the government to ratify ILO Convention 190 (C.190) on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work. It noted that 44 countries, including eight African nations, have already ratified the convention, and Ghana must follow suit to protect workers, particularly women, from abuse in professional settings.

Additionally, the TUC demanded the ratification of ILO Convention 183 on Maternity Protection to extend maternity leave to at least 14 weeks, aligning Ghana’s policies with international labor standards and supporting working mothers.

The Union reaffirmed its commitment to fighting for women’s rights, stating that gender equality is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. It pledged to continue advocating for safe workplaces, decent wages, and economic empowerment for women across the country.

Celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) on the theme, “For All Women and Girls: Right. Equality. Empowerment – The Role of Trade Unions,” the TUC reiterated its stance that advancing women’s rights is essential for national development. The Union urged employers, policymakers, and trade unions to work collectively to ensure a more equitable and inclusive future for all Ghanaian women.