Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2020, published 109th ILC session (2021)

Indigenous and Tribal Populations Convention, 1957 (No. 107) - Ghana (Ratification: 1958)

Prospects for the ratification of the most up-to-date Convention. The Committee previously noted the Government’s indication that the diverse ethnic groups existing in the country were nationally integrated and enjoyed the same rights against discrimination as all citizens, as well as the Government’s will to ensure respect for customs and traditions of all ethnic groups. The Government further indicated that the invitation to examine the possibility of ratifying the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169), which revised Convention No. 107, had been communicated to the sector ministry for consideration.

In its report, the Government indicates that it will commence consultation to review the ratification of Convention No. 169 and will provide information to the Committee in the next report. The Committee welcomes this information. It recalls that, at its 328th Session in November 2016, the Governing Body requested the Office to commence follow-up with the Member States bound by Convention No. 107, encouraging them to ratify Convention No. 169, as the most up-to-date instrument in this subject area. In this regard, the Committee observes that, in the context of the implementation of the ILO Strategy for indigenous peoples’ rights for inclusive and sustainable development, the Office can provide the appropriate support to countries that so wish, including by conducting preliminary assessments and building capacities to establish a legal, strategic and institutional framework to facilitate the implementation of Convention No. 169 (see document GB.334/POL/2). In these circumstances, the Committee reminds the Government of the possibility of availing itself of ILO technical assistance and encourages it to continue taking steps with a view to undertaking the consultations for the possible ratification of Convention No. 169, which is the most up-to-date instrument in this subject area.