By Hannah Dadzie
Ghana has begun the process of formulating a comprehensive foreign policy framework, aimed at repositioning the country in a rapidly changing global environment.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has opened a two day stakeholders’ workshop in Accra, to shape a unified and future-driven foreign policy direction for the nation.
The workshop brought together diplomats, security experts, academics, civil society groups, private sector actors, and retired envoys.
Speaking at the opening session, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, described the moment as a defining chapter in Ghana’s diplomatic evolution.
Mr Quayson said the country could no longer rely on fragmented or reactive approaches to global engagement in an era marked by geopolitical tensions, technological disruptions, climate pressures, and shifting alliances.
“There are moments in the life of a nation when history calls out to us, quietly at first, then with urgency. Today is one of those moments. We are not here for routine consultations but to take part in a national exercise that will shape how Ghana positions itself in an increasingly volatile world.” Mr Quayson
He underscored the need for coherence and clarity in external engagements, adding that although Articles 40 and 73–75 of the 1992 Constitution had served as moral anchors for decades, Ghana’s foreign policy must now evolve to match new global realities.
Mr. Quayson emphasised that the process would consolidate Ghana’s diplomatic principles, Pan-Africanism, non-alignment, peace, justice, and multilateralism into a single framework that is modern, strategic, and future-focused. He stressed that foreign policy in the 21st century is no longer the sole preserve of foreign ministries.
“Every embassy must become an engine of trade, investment, innovation, and opportunity. Diplomacy must translate into jobs for our youth and prosperity for our people.” The Deputy Minister said
Acting Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Khadija Iddrisu, said the workshop marked a turning point in ensuring that Ghana’s global engagements are coherent and firmly anchored in national interest.
She noted that months of consultations with retired diplomats and institutional experts revealed the need for stronger coordination and consistency across government.
“Our foundations remain strong. But there have been moments when our voice did not fully project the clarity for which Ghana is known. This comprehensive foreign policy will not be another document for the shelves, it will be a living framework that guides our choices and delivers value to the Ghanaian people.” she said
Ambassador Iddrisu added that the task ahead is both challenging and inspiring, urging participants to bring clarity, honesty and conviction to ensure a foreign policy that strengthens institutions, advances national interests and positions Ghana as a principled actor on the global stage.
“Let us think boldly, collaborate with purpose, and seize this opportunity to help shape the Ghana we will pass on to generations yet to come.” She noted
The Acting Chief Director outlined six emerging pillars shaping the new policy. These are Economic diplomacy, Strategic partnerships, Security and defence cooperation, Climate and environmental diplomacy, Diaspora and cultural engagement, Renewed commitment to multilateralism and South–South cooperation
Dean and Director of Academic Affairs at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, delivered a lecture on “Globalisation, the Nation and Current Global Imperatives”.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Vladimir Antwi Danso, described globalisation as an “unstoppable wind” that favours the technologically advanced, warning, thar it’s never a win-win situation.
He highlighted how major global powers attempt to bully countries into following their steps, citing pressure on issues like democracy and human rights that sometimes contradict national culture.
The academic argued that this dynamic has effectively rendered Ghana’s historic policy of non-alignment “virtually dead.”
He pointed to instances where Ghana has been compelled to be very outspoken on geopolitical issues, such as the conflicts in Israel and Ukraine, often singing to the tune of the hyper-globalizing powers.
“That is the more reason why we need a comprehensive foreign policy that spells out our national interest,” Dr. Antwi Danso said
He proposed that the right way forward for Ghana is through a renewed commitment to multilateralism and the rule of law, advocating for the reform of the United Nations to ensure a “rule-based world in which everybody behaves.”
The two-day workshop is expected to produce practical recommendations that will guide the drafting of Ghana’s first comprehensive foreign policy document.
The Ministry says the final framework will protect Ghana’s sovereignty, enhance its global influence, strengthen institutions, and align diplomacy with national development goals.
Participants are tasked to refine the proposed pillars, recommend reforms, and strengthen mechanisms for whole-of-government coordination. The insights gathered will be incorporated into the final document before submission to the appropriate authorities.
