GENDER, VULNERABILITY AND THE POLITICS OF DECISION-MAKING IN GHANA: THE CASE OF THE UPPER EAST REGION

Abstract

This paper examines the gender implications of vulnerability in relation to the politics of decision-making in Ghana with particular reference to the Upper East Region. Using concept analysis, it situates the question of vulnerability within the context of the Ghana Poverty Reduction Strategy (GPRS), which defines it as extreme poverty and in relation to exclusion. Examining the characteristics set out in the GPRS, it argues that the people of the Upper East Region are vulnerable but women are more vulnerable. This is demonstrated by the fact that women are affected by all but also have care responsibility of seven out of the thirteen-point characteristics of vulnerable people set out in the GPRS. An analysis of the decisionmaking structures of the household, community and district/ regional levels reveals a pattern of exclusion, which is attributable /'0 their vulnerability. Indeed, women's low participation and representation in the formal- structures of the district and regional administration is a carryover from the informal structures of the household/family and community. Hence, it is argued that change is imperative and that such change can occur only if structures are transformed to promote not just access to but also opportunities for influencing the decision-making process.