Awareness of anthropogenic climate change and its perceived implications for the fundamental human rights of young women in coastal communities in Effutu Municipality, Ghana

Background: Climate change poses a significant threat to the fundamental human rights of vulnerable populations. In this study, we examined the awareness of anthropogenic climate change and its perceived effects on the fundamental human rights of young women in coastal communities within the Effutu Municipality in Ghana.

Methods: A descriptive correlational cross-sectional study was conducted with 387 young women aged 18–35 years from 10 coastal communities in the Effutu Municipality. Data were collected using questionnaires between 24th March and May 30, 2025. The data preparation and cleaning preceded the analysis, where participants’ responses were coded, entered and screened using JAMOVI computer software (Version 2.6.26). We then used the minimum-maximum function to validate the data for completeness, consistency, and possible missing data, and then analysed using descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression.

Results: High and moderate climate change awareness were demonstrated by 46.8 % and 38.8 % of the participants, respectively. Participants reported environmental changes, such as increased heat, infrequent rains, and flooding. Education level, occupation, living arrangements, residence, and number of children were significant determinants of climate awareness. Information was primarily spread through radio (74.9 %) and television (61.8 %), with minimal input from educational institutions. The rights-based approach underscores the necessity of upholding rights related to life, health, and a safe environment, advocating for inclusive policies that particularly benefit vulnerable groups like young women in the study area. This approach enhances access to justice and remedies, fostering equity in climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Conclusions: Despite the moderate to high awareness of climate change, understanding of its human rights impacts is limited. The study recommends targeted interventions, community education, and youth involvement to better inform coastal communities, particularly regarding the rights of young women. It highlights the need for further research across Ghana to assess climate change awareness and develop effective communication strategies to address human rights and related issues in Ghana's coastal communities.