Accra: Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have called for stronger environmental protections and greater citizen participation in Ghana's ongoing constitutional review process, warning that critical environmental reforms could be overlooked as the country approaches its next elections in December 2028.
According to Ghana Web, the call was made during a meeting on Ghana's Constitutional Reform Process, with a focus on the Natural Resource and Environment thematic area, held on June 16, 2026. The event was organised by the Citizens Platform on Constitutional Review (CPCR), an initiative facilitated by the CDD-Ghana, STAR-Ghana Foundation, and Democracy Hub, in partnership with A Rocha Ghana.
Participants expressed concern that although the Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) has proposed significant environmental reforms, its final report has yet to be published. They cautioned that delays in the process could undermine opportunities for public input and consensus-building.
A major focus of discussions was the proposed shift from the current constitutional provision under Article 36(9), which serves as a non-justiciable directive principle, to a more enforceable framework based on the Public Trust Doctrine. Under the proposal, the state would have a fiduciary duty to protect natural resources for present and future generations.
Delegates also examined the proposal to criminalise ecocide, a move they believe could strengthen efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, and address large-scale environmental destruction across the country.
Participants identified several gaps in the CRC's recommendations, including the absence of the Polluter Pays Principle, the establishment of a specialised Environmental Court, recognition of individual responsibilities towards environmental protection, and the inclusion of a justiciable Right to a Healthy Environment.
The meeting further highlighted the need for stronger community and procedural rights, particularly regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), equitable sharing of mineral revenues, and expanded opportunities for public interest litigation.
According to the organisers, the gathering sought to analyse and validate the CRC's recommendations, build consensus on necessary amendments, and develop a coordinated strategy for engagement with policymakers.
The meeting concluded with an agreement among participating CSOs to present unified recommendations to the Constitutional Review Implementation Committee (CRIC) and Parliament.
Stakeholders also developed a roadmap for direct engagement with the Office of the President, CRIC, and Parliamentary Select Committees to ensure environmental concerns remain central to constitutional reform discussions.
Participants expressed optimism that stronger constitutional safeguards would help protect Ghana's natural resources, improve environmental governance, and promote sustainable development for future generations.