After nearly a decade of inconclusive bilateral discussions, Ghana has escalated its maritime boundary dispute with neighbouring Togo to international arbitration under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The decision follows eight years of negotiations that failed to produce a mutually acceptable agreement on the delimitation of the two countries’ maritime boundary.
In a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications, the government indicated that the move is aimed at preventing further tensions arising from incidents involving institutions from both sides.
Rather than allowing the matter to strain diplomatic relations, Ghana says it is opting for a rules-based approach grounded in international law. Officials described the arbitration route as a lawful and peaceful mechanism for achieving clarity and finality on the boundary question.
The government stressed that the decision was made in the spirit of good neighbourliness and continued cooperation, expressing hope that the structured legal process would deliver an amicable and definitive outcome.
Under UNCLOS, maritime delimitation disputes are resolved through established legal procedures that determine territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, providing states with a clear framework for settling competing claims.
By invoking arbitration, Ghana signals a shift from prolonged diplomatic engagement to formal legal resolution, seeking to bring certainty to a long-standing issue while preserving bilateral ties with Togo.
