Commissioner of CHRAJ, Dr Joseph Whittal
The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has urged the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) to uphold human rights standards while conducting operations to remove undocumented migrants from Accra and other cities.
In a statement dated May 20, 2025, and signed by the Commissioner, Dr Joseph Whittal, CHRAJ commended the GIS for addressing the challenges posed by undocumented migrants.
However, it emphasised the importance of respecting the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning individuals to countries where they may face persecution or harm.
“While addressing public order, health, and safety concerns, the government’s decision to repatriate undocumented migrants must be carried out humanely and with dignity, on a case-by-case basis. This approach avoids violating the principle of non-refoulement under international law, which prohibits returning individuals to countries where they may face persecution or harm,” the statement noted.
CHRAJ also proposed sustainable interventions through international cooperation between Ghana and relevant states to effectively address migration-related challenges.
“The Commission reminds GIS and relevant stakeholders that a significant proportion of undocumented migrants are women and children. Operations should be gender-responsive and prioritize the best interests of the child.
The Commission proposes strengthening sustainable interventions through international cooperation between Ghana and relevant states to effectively address migration-related issues,” it added.
Read the full statement below
JKB/MA
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