18-Years – A perfectly synchronous age of consent and marriage
Sexual activity cannot be considered to be alien or unrelated to pregnancy, childbirth and co-parenting. According to Ghana’s Criminal Code, the current age of sexual consent is 16 years, while the age of marriage is 18. This current age of sexual consent needs to be adjusted upwards from 16 to 18 years. Basic Ghanaian sociology […]
In Ghana, the age of sexual consent is currently set at 16 years, while the legal age of marriage is 18 years. This disparity has been the subject of much debate among legal experts, child welfare officers, and social workers. The argument for raising the age of sexual consent to match the age of marriage is that it would address concerns related to child exploitation, pregnancy, and the overall well-being of both the girl and boy involved.
UNICEF emphasizes that the age of sexual consent should consider the risks of sexual abuse, the impact of early sexual activity on a child's rights and development, and the potential for sexual exploitation through gifts and favors. Many children in Ghana and other West African countries are left to meet their own needs without significant support from parents or the state, making them particularly vulnerable.
Raising the age of sexual consent would not only align legal standards but also promote the best biological and psychological interests of Ghanaian children in challenging circumstances. This change would ensure that pregnancies are not coerced or driven by financial desperation and that both parents can be present in the child's life, providing love, care, and stability.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
