The Universal Friendship Organization (UFO) has expressed concern over what it describes as Ghana’s declining position on the Global Peace Index (GPI), warning that the trend requires urgent attention as the country prepares for another political season.
The organisation made the call ahead of World Peace Day on September 21, 2026, as part of its Peace Campaign Awareness under the theme, “Invest in Peace for Everyone, Everywhere, Everyday.”
According to the UFO, Ghana improved steadily on the GPI between 2016 and 2021, moving from 44th globally in 2016 to 38th in 2021, which it described as the country’s best ranking in the decade.
It said Ghana’s position had since declined, moving from 40th globally in 2022 to 51st in 2023, 55th in 2024, 61st in 2025 and 76th in 2026.
The organisation said Ghana’s 2026 position placed it 10th in Africa, behind Mauritius, Botswana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone and Senegal.
The UFO attributed what it described as the decline to economic challenges, including the cost of living, youth unemployment and inequality, as well as social and political factors such as chieftaincy disputes, communal conflicts, discrimination, political polarisation and intolerance.
As Ghana prepares for the political season, the organisation urged the government and political parties to prioritise national interest and avoid actions that could heighten tensions.
It called for an end to hate speech, vote-buying and divisive political rhetoric, stressing that peace should take precedence over political and personal interests.
The organisation also called on the government to invest in youth employment, social justice and citizen safety, while urging political parties to promote issue-based campaigns.
Traditional and religious leaders were encouraged to promote dialogue and inclusion, while citizens were urged to practise tolerance and friendship in their daily lives.
“Peace is not cheap, but it is cheaper than conflict. Let us all invest in it,” the organisation said.
The UFO said its campaign was aimed at promoting friendship, tolerance and peace and called for renewed efforts to restore Ghana’s position among Africa’s most peaceful countries.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Hajia Memunatu
