The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has organised a two-day intensive human rights and dignity training workshop for officers of the Ghana Police Service in the Volta Region.

The workshop, held in Ho, is part of broader efforts to build a rights-conscious law enforcement culture that aligns with Ghana’s Constitution and international human rights standards.

The training brought together police personnel from various departments and districts across the region.

It was designed to deepen officers’ appreciation of human rights principles, enhance gender sensitivity in policing, and ensure more humane and lawful interactions with the public—particularly with vulnerable and marginalised groups.

Participants engaged in discussions on fundamental human rights in policing, the constitutional and legal framework for human rights protection in Ghana, and the country’s international commitments.

The sessions also highlighted the critical role law enforcement plays in upholding the dignity of citizens during their operations.

Senior Programs Officer at CDD-Ghana, Dr. Michael Augustus Akagbor, explained the significance of the workshop.

He emphasised that promoting a police force that respects and protects the rights of all persons—especially vulnerable populations—was key to building public trust and ensuring justice in Ghana’s democratic system.

“We believe that effective policing must go hand in hand with the protection of human dignity. This training seeks to support the Ghana Police Service to internalize human rights values in their operations,” Dr. Akagbor said.

A facilitator at the workshop, William Nyarko, underscored the need for continuous education and capacity building for law enforcement officers.

He noted that understanding and applying human rights principles helps police officers perform their duties more professionally and with greater accountability to the communities they serve.

“Police officers are at the frontline of justice delivery. Their actions must reflect both the law and compassion. Human rights training equips them to handle situations with fairness, especially in a democratic state like Ghana,” he stated.

Chief Inspector Francis Gomado, a participant, described the training as timely and eye-opening.

“The workshop has reminded us of the need to always act within the law while maintaining the dignity of the individuals we deal with. It’s going to be very useful in my daily operations,” she shared.

Lance Corporal Barbara Akusua Konadu also expressed appreciation for the workshop, stating that the sessions had broadened her understanding of rights-based policing and the responsibilities of officers in respecting individual freedom

“The human rights training has shifted my mindset and approach. It has shown us that law enforcement can be firm yet respectful,” she said.

The CDD-Ghana initiative forms part of its broader mission to promote democratic governance, rule of law, and accountable institutions in Ghana. With growing calls for police reform and more citizen-friendly law enforcement practices, this workshop signals a positive step toward a more rights-respecting police force.