United Nations expert on toxics and human rights to conduct fact-finding visit

Marcos Orellana, the UN Special Rapporteur on Toxics and Human Rights, will be traveling to Ghana from November 30 to December 13, 2022, to assess the nation’s human rights landscape concerning toxic and hazardous materials. The Government has extended an invitation to the Special Rapporteur.

He stated, “I am especially keen on recognizing effective practices and investigating the utilization and management of chemicals and hazardous waste.”

“The avoidance of toxic exposure through proper governance of hazardous materials has immediate ramifications on the enjoyment of human rights, influencing individuals’ lives, health, and livelihoods.”

The Special Rapporteur will engage with government officials, civil society members, and other key players while touring areas in Ghana impacted by toxic substances.

The UN expert will hold a press conference on December 13, 2022, at 15:30 at the Ghana Journalists Association (Ghana International Press Centre, Ringway, Accra, Ghana). Access will be granted solely to journalists.

In September 2023, the Special Rapporteur will present a comprehensive report to the Human Rights Council detailing his findings and recommendations.