The Government of Ghana has formally informed the Government of Togo of its decision to submit their unresolved maritime boundary dispute to international arbitration under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The decision follows nearly eight years of bilateral negotiations between the two neighbouring countries, which have failed to produce a mutually acceptable agreement on the delimitation of their maritime boundary.
In a communication to Togo, Ghana indicated that it is turning to arbitration after prolonged efforts at dialogue did not yield the desired results. The government noted that the step is necessary to ensure clarity and legal certainty over the boundary.
Officials stressed that the move is not intended to strain relations but rather to safeguard them. Ghana explained that the action is meant “to avoid an escalation of incidents that have created tensions between some of our institutions,” adding that arbitration would help secure a peaceful and lawful settlement.
The government further underscored its commitment to good neighbourliness, stating that the process would “promote an amicable resolution” and contribute to sustaining the strong ties that exist between Accra and Lomé.
By invoking the dispute resolution mechanisms under UNCLOS, Ghana is opting for a rules-based international legal process to settle the matter, in line with global maritime law standards.
