An Investigator with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Isabella, has called for a change in the way society approaches discipline, justice and accountability in relationships, homes and workplaces.
Speaking on Nyansapo Fie on Plan B FM with host Akosua Gyamfua, Isabella stressed that discipline and accountability are essential to building healthy families, workplaces and communities, but cautioned against practices that cross the line from correction into abuse.
She explained that discipline should be aimed at correction, growth and positive change rather than retaliation, intimidation or the infliction of pain.
Touching on relationships and marriage, Isabella said disagreements and mistakes should be addressed through mutual correction, communication and empathy rather than physical or emotional abuse.
She noted that healthy relationships should be safe spaces where partners can guide and support each other without resorting to intimidation, manipulation or controlling behaviour.
On parenting, the CHRAJ investigator urged parents to carefully consider the type and extent of discipline they administer to their children.
She emphasised the difference between constructive correction and harmful punishment, encouraging parents to focus on helping children understand their mistakes and learn from them rather than disciplining them out of anger.
In the workplace, Isabella called for clear and transparent procedures for dealing with misconduct, saying disciplinary measures must be fair, proportionate and properly communicated to the affected employee.
According to her, employees should understand why disciplinary action is being taken against them, as this can make the process corrective and developmental rather than humiliating.
Isabella further stressed that justice must be fair, impartial and applied equally, whether in the home, workplace or public institutions.
She said replacing punitive and hostile approaches with constructive correction, fairness and accountability would help build relationships and institutions rooted in respect, understanding and lasting positive change.
By: Sandra Kwapong
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