The age of sexual consent in Ghana has been a subject of debate for years, with many arguing that it should be raised from 16 to 18 years to align with the age of marriage. According to Emmanuel Asare Owusu, a critical review of Ghana's legal and structural arrangement is necessary to address the country's social problems. The current age discrepancy has sparked controversy, with some scholars, legal experts, and child welfare officers calling for a change.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) has rejected 13 years as an age of sexual consent, citing that it is too low. UNICEF has also emphasized that the age of sexual consent should prioritize the likelihood of sexual abuse, early sexual activity's consequences on a child's rights and development, and sexual exploitation. In Ghana and other West African countries, children are vulnerable to exploitation, especially when offered gifts or assistance by manipulative adults.
Raising the age of sexual consent to 18 years would ensure uniformity with the age of marriage and eliminate controversy surrounding the age discrepancy. This change would also promote the best biological and psychological interests of Ghanaian children. According to Owusu, sexual activity has significant biological and psychological health implications, particularly for teenagers who may not have the necessary knowledge or access to prenatal care.
Pregnancy among teenagers can have severe consequences, including emotional and financial hardships. In a society with high poverty levels, children from poor families should not be exposed to early sexual activities that can exacerbate their situation. Furthermore, discrimination against pregnant girls can lead to depression, regret, and pain, which can affect their mental health and the well-being of their newborn babies.
The boy child who impregnates a girl may also face emotional and psychological challenges, including stigma and shame. In such situations, both parties may struggle to cope with the demands of pregnancy, and their mental health may suffer. Support from family members, friends, and relatives may be lacking, as they may be the perpetrators of stigma.
Raising the age of sexual consent does not aim to criminalize childhood sexual behavior but rather protect Ghanaian children from exploitation and harm. By aligning the age of consent with the age of marriage, the government can ensure that children born to couples who get pregnant have a relatively stable family environment. This change can provide children with a better opportunity to be loved, cared for, and adored.
Ensuring that children are raised by both parents who have agreed to stay together can have a positive impact on their well-being. When partners can legitimately get pregnant but are prohibited from committing to living together, the child may suffer. In disadvantaged situations, children have limited power to express their pain or determine their needs, making it essential to prioritize their best interests.
Key points
- Aligning age of consent with age of marriage
- Protecting children from exploitation and harm
- Promoting stable family environments for children
