MONROVIA, LIBERIA — Liberia has assured 15 third-country nationals transferred from the United States that they will be treated with dignity and afforded protection under Liberian and international law as the government implements a new migration arrangement with Washington.
The 15 individuals arrived at Roberts International Airport and were received by Cllr. J. Cole Bangalu, Executive Director of the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), together with representatives of the Ministry of Health and other government agencies.
The arrivals are part of an Exchange of Notes Arrangement recently concluded between Liberia and the United States to facilitate the transfer of eligible individuals being removed from the US who have requested international protection.
The Liberian government said the individuals underwent screening and processing upon arrival, including immigration, health and security procedures.
Officials said the measures are intended to support an orderly reception while arrangements are made for the individuals’ possible return to their respective countries of origin.
The government has also assured that their basic safety and well-being will be protected throughout their stay in Liberia.
Importantly, officials stressed that the 15 individuals should not be viewed as criminals because of their transfer.
The government said they are not being prosecuted in Liberia or the United States under the arrangement and will be treated with respect throughout their stay.
Those who decide to leave Liberia will remain free to do so, while individuals who wish to remain and seek asylum will have their cases considered under applicable Liberian and international legal frameworks.
The government described the arrangement as consistent with Liberia’s historical role as a country that has provided refuge to people escaping persecution, armed conflict and political instability.
That history, officials said, informs Liberia’s decision to participate in the arrangement while maintaining appropriate safeguards for national security and public interest.
The government has appealed to the Liberian public to receive the newcomers peacefully and extend the hospitality for which Liberia is known.
Implementation of the arrangement will involve the LRRRC, Ministry of Health, immigration and security authorities and other relevant institutions.
The government said the process will continue to balance Liberia’s national interests with its obligations to protect the rights and dignity of people received under the agreement.
