The Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Mr. Joseph Whittal, is advocating for more severe penalties for individuals and businesses engaged in environmental degradation, particularly in illegal mining (Galamsey) activities.

He stressed that imposing stricter punishments would act as a deterrent to others with intentions of harming the environment for personal or business interests.

Speaking in Accra at a forum commemorating International Human Rights Day, Mr. Whittal highlighted the need for a proactive approach to combat the rampant destruction of the environment caused by Galamsey activities, emphasizing the urgency of the fight.

He urged both private and public business owners to conduct their operations legally, emphasizing the importance of human rights due diligence as a prerequisite for establishing businesses.

Mr. Whittal expressed optimism that the adoption of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights next year would enhance the regulation of business activities in alignment with human rights principles.

While acknowledging Ghana's efforts in human rights protection and promotion, Mr. Whittal noted that there is still significant room for improvement and called on the government to reform policies to safeguard the rights of marginalized groups.

The Deputy Attorney-General and Deputy Minister of Justice, Mr. Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, highlighted the essence of recognizing and upholding human rights, fostering empathy regardless of individual differences.

He emphasized that the celebration of Human Rights Day aims to address challenges facing human rights advancements in Ghana, with a focus on thematic issues such as business operations and environmental rights, identified by CHRAJ.

Charles Abani, the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Ghana, drew attention to the banned usage of Paraquat and chlorpyrifos in Europe but imported and used in Ghana, posing environmental and health risks. Specifically, glyphosate, employed in yam production, was found to be 'probably carcinogenic to humans.'