Violation of human rights: a case of trokosi system in Ketu–South District

Abstract

The main objective of the study was to assess violation of women’s rights in the Ketu-South District. Being an essentially qualitative study, it adopted a descriptive and exploratory approach to expose the incidence of human rights abuse or violation in the study area. A purposive sampling technique was used. The main instrument used for data collection was the interview guide. The findings from the field show that there are varying views about the origin of the Trokosi system among the people of the various shrines. However, the use of females as atonement to the gods was clear indication in the narrations of how it (the Trokosi system) originated among the Ewes. Further findings reveal that the Trokosis are sexually, physically and psychologically abused. Moreover, respondents were found to be experiencing other forms of abuses in the various shrines. Based on the findings of the study, it is concluded that although there are varying views concerning the origin of the Trokosi system, demands for females to serve the gods on behalf of the people or particular family as a result of predicaments was explicitly mentioned. Again, women and girls who serve at the shrines are denied the most fundamental of human rights due to the practices of the Trokosi system.