To Beijing and back: Reflections on the influence of the Beijing Conference on popular notions of women’s empowerment in Ghana

Abstract

This article examines the influence of the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing on ideas and practices surrounding women’s empowerment in Ghana. The authors argue that the Beijing Conference was an important moment in legitimising women’s rights work and providing a powerful language through which women’s empowerment could be discussed. Its influence extended beyond women’s organisations, shaping the ideas and practices of public institutions, civil society organisations and wider public discourse. The study finds that there is now greater acceptance of the principle that women have rights that should be promoted and protected, as well as greater recognition of the need for institutions through which women can seek support and redress. However, significant challenges remain. Resistance to gender equality, tokenistic responses and persistent inequalities continue to influence public attitudes and institutional action. The article therefore argues that future efforts to advance women’s empowerment in Ghana should build on the gains made since Beijing while addressing the continuing barriers to meaningful gender equality.