COVID-19 pandemic and human security in Ghana: the case of the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem municipality, Ghana

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that human security is just as important as state security. The public health emergency unleashed by the pandemic has affected all sectors of human lives and has become a ‘human rights crisis’ affecting human dignity. From the broad human security architecture perspective, this research seeks to understand how Covid-19 has impacted human security in Ghana. The study used the mixed method approach to collect and analyse data from 163 household heads and six key informants. The interview schedule and guide were used to collect information from the household head and the key informants. In the end, it was evident that the pandemic seriously affected households’ disposable incomes, access to healthcare, and livelihoods. In addition, it was evident that the pandemic affected their civic liberties concerning freedom of movement, association and religion. The study also revealed little support was offered to people with disabilities and older people. Financial constraints and the harsh effects of the lockdown reduced their disposable income and made spending on PPEs very difficult. It is recommended that governments should implement policies to reduce disparities and improve access to essential services, including healthcare, education, and social support, particularly for marginalized communities. However, these policy interventions should be done to benefit all and not only political party members.