Liberia’s Foreign Minister Emphasizes Commitment to Peacebuilding and Sustainable Development
New York, August 19, 2024 – Liberia’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, addressed the Liberia Configuration of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, highlighting the country’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the rule of law, transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.
Minister Nyanti emphasized Liberia’s ARREST Agenda, which focuses on peacebuilding, transparency, and anti-corruption measures. She also discussed the potential establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) and expressed gratitude for the United Nations’ ongoing support and partnership with Liberia.
The Foreign Minister reflected on Liberia’s progress since the signing of the Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2003, outlining efforts for youth empowerment and transitional justice. She called for continued international support for Liberia’s peacebuilding initiatives and expressed appreciation for the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.
Minister Nyanti emphasized the importance of youth empowerment, noting that 63% of Liberia’s population is under the age of 25. She announced the government’s commitment to developing a National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security, with support from the UN Peace and Development Trust Fund. She also stressed the importance of social cohesion programs.
As Liberia continues its journey towards sustained peace and development, Foreign Minister Nyanti called on the international community to support Liberia’s transitional justice initiatives, including the establishment of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC) and efforts to promote social cohesion through initiatives such as the National Palava Hut Program and the Women’s Peace Huts.
The United Nations Peacebuilding Fund has played a crucial role in supporting Liberia’s peacebuilding efforts. Foreign Minister Nyanti expressed Liberia’s deep appreciation for this partnership and encouraged continued collaboration to build a more peaceful and prosperous nation.
The session was attended by national officials and representatives from civil society organizations, including Samuel Koffi Woods, National Security Advisor, Cllr. N. Oswald K. Tweh, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Adama K. Dempster, Secretary General, Civil Society Human Rights Platform, and Ms. Banica Elliott, President, Federation of Liberian Youth.
