The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has strongly condemned the increasing spread of intimate images and videos without the consent of those involved, cautioning that individuals who produce, distribute or deliberately repost such content could face legal sanctions. The Ministry has also called on the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to investigate reported cases of indecent exposure, unauthorised recording and sexual blackmail, and take the necessary legal action against anyone found culpable.
In a press release issued on Friday, November 6, 2026, the Ministry raised concerns about the persistent incidents of intimate encounters being recorded and circulated without authorisation, threats to release private images and videos, and other forms of technology-facilitated sexual abuse. It noted that such acts infringed on the dignity, privacy and safety of victims, potentially subjecting them to public humiliation, intimidation, psychological trauma, reputational harm and further exploitation.
The Ministry emphasised that consenting to an intimate relationship or sexual encounter did not automatically grant another person the right to record, share or publicly expose the experience. It further stressed that no one had the right to exploit another person’s intimate images, videos or personal information to threaten, extort, embarrass or exert control over them. The report can also be refined with a stronger headline and a more engaging opening paragraph for publication.
Reposting intimate content also attracts consequences
The Ministry has expressed specific concern regarding the circulation of private images and videos on social media, often accompanied by ridicule, sensational commentary, and public humiliation. This behaviour not only exacerbates the harm suffered by victims but also constitutes an additional violation of their privacy and dignity.
The Ministry warned that intentionally sharing or republishing intimate material without consent could lead to legal consequences. It urged social media users, bloggers, and content creators to act responsibly. “Public interest in an incident does not justify further violations of the privacy and dignity of the individuals involved,” the statement emphasised.
The Ministry also referenced the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), and the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) as part of Ghana’s legal framework for addressing indecent conduct, sexual exploitation, sexual extortion, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.
Victims urged to report incidents
The Ministry urged all victims and survivors, regardless of gender, not to succumb to threats or intimidation. They encouraged individuals to report incidents to the appropriate authorities and seek assistance and protection. The Ministry called on the police and relevant agencies to conduct thorough investigations of reported cases while ensuring the safety of victims and adhering to due process.
Additionally, the statement asked the public to refrain from sharing, reposting, or amplifying intimate images and videos, as doing so could increase the distress and humiliation experienced by those affected. The Ministry expressed its commitment to public education, responsible digital behavior, and supporting victims and survivors. They also pledged to collaborate with relevant institutions to prevent sexual exploitation, indecent exposure, and other forms of technology-facilitated abuse.
The Ministry reiterated that privacy, dignity, and bodily autonomy must be respected. No one should be subjected to humiliation, exploitation, or blackmail through the misuse of intimate material.
