The former Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Emmanuel Bombande, has stated that applying for a visa is a fundamental right of Ghanaians, not a privilege.

According to him, international conventions, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, guarantee individuals the right to travel, and as such, Ghanaians should not be subjected to unfair treatment when seeking visas.

Our new foreign minister, the Hon Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is very much seized on this matter, very actively engaged in defending and advocating the interest of the people of Ghana and in so doing engaging with our friends and partners to give Ghanaians a fair treatment,” Mr Bombande stated on JoyNews PM Express on Wednesday, February 26.

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His comment comes after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged all Embassies and High Commissions in Ghana to put appropriate and humane conditions in place at their Embassies.

According to the ministry, the move forms part of remedial measures to address the numerous complaints by the public about how Ghanaian citizens are treated when they visit foreign missions in Ghana for visa applications.

“The complaints cover issues such as, not providing conducive waiting areas, non-availability of emergency services, long waiting times for appointment dates as well as challenges in using visa application websites,” the Ministry said.

On the back of this, Mr Bombande referenced Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which stated that every individual has the right to travel, including leaving their home country.

However, he acknowledged that entry into another country is subject to visa policies and border controls.

“When Ghanaians are queuing to apply for visas to travel, it is not a privilege, it’s a right guaranteed by our international conventions, laws and customs,” he said.

Mr Bombande further questioned why Ghanaians often face difficulties in acquiring visas, despite Ghana’s own hospitable approach to welcoming foreign visitors.

He stressed the need for reciprocity in visa processes, ensuring that just as Ghana treats visitors fairly, other countries should do the same for Ghanaian applicants.

Mr Bombande commended the Foreign Minister for bringing this issue to the forefront, describing it as a significant step toward advocating for fair and dignified treatment of Ghanaians in visa application processes.