The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has identified emerging challenges threatening Ghana and the sub-region’s progress on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda.

Speaking at an event marking the 25th Anniversary of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, Dr. Lartey outlined key issues that require urgent and coordinated action to sustain the gains made over the years.

She noted that cyber security threats and digital harassment targeting women leaders, politicians, and activists have become growing concerns, stressing the need to strengthen cyber governance and digital safety frameworks to protect women in public and digital spaces.

Dr. Lartey also cited violent extremism and border security concerns, which continue to threaten peace in parts of West Africa.

She emphasised the importance of community-based women’s mediation and peace-building initiatives to prevent radicalisation and foster local resilience.

On the issue of climate change and environmental insecurity, the Minister observed that the effects are disproportionately borne by rural and coastal women, affecting their livelihoods and well-being.

She called for the integration of climate security considerations into national and regional women, peace, and security frameworks.

Dr. Lartey further highlighted economic empowerment and resilience as critical to achieving sustainable peace.

She urged continued investment in agribusiness, renewable energy, and green economy projects that create opportunities for women and strengthen community stability.

“Addressing these challenges requires dedication, coordination, and collective action from all stakeholders to sustain Ghana’s progress on the women, peace, and security agenda,” Dr. Lartey stated.

The anniversary event brought together policymakers, civil society actors, development partners, and women leaders to reflect on two and a half decades of advancing women’s roles in peace and security processes globally and locally.