On December 18, the Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) selected Liberia as a newly eligible country for the development of a compact. This decision recognizes Liberia’s progress in improving its performance on the MCC scorecard and its commitment to implementing essential economic and democratic governance reforms. MCC CEO Alice Albright expressed pride in the long-standing relationship with Liberia, emphasizing the agency’s excitement about forming a new partnership aimed at advancing opportunities for the people of Liberia.
During its quarterly meeting, the Board also reviewed the performance of other countries previously selected for eligibility. Cabo Verde and Senegal were reselected to continue developing regional compacts, while The Gambia was authorized to proceed with compact development. The Philippines also received approval to continue its threshold program.
However, the Board raised concerns about political developments in Tanzania, noting reports of disappearances, political violence, and restrictions on freedoms. While the Board urged Tanzania to improve protections for democratic rights, it reaffirmed the continuation of its threshold program.
The Board deferred its vote on Togo’s Compact re-selection, giving the government more time to take actions to protect democratic rights and freedoms. Meanwhile, developments in Mozambique, including concerns over the October 2024 elections and post-election violence, were noted, with the MCC pledging to closely monitor the situation.
This meeting marked the final session under the Biden administration, with participation from key officials including Secretary of State Antony Blinken. MCC’s recent successes were highlighted, with $4.1 billion invested across 15 programs benefiting nearly 80 million people globally. The Millennium Challenge Corporation, established in 2004, is dedicated to reducing global poverty through economic growth by providing grants for infrastructure and institutional reforms in countries meeting high governance standards.
