Held at the EJS Ministerial Complex, Congo Town, Monrovia
September 10, 2025
It is both an honor and a profound privilege to stand before you today at this pivotal gathering organized by the African Women Leaders Network under the Social Mobilization Pillar. Today’s event, the Positive Masculinity Dialogue with Men, represents not just an occasion for discussion but a critical step toward transforming our societal fabric—toward redefining what it means to be a man in Liberia and beyond.
In Liberia, as many of you know, our history is marked by resilience and hope amidst challenges. We have made significant strides in advancing the rights of women and girls—empowering them to participate more actively in politics, education, and economic life. However, it is equally true that deeply ingrained societal norms and misconceptions about masculinity continue to fuel violence and inequality.
Traditional ideas of masculinity in Liberia—and indeed in many parts of our continent—often emphasize dominance, strength, and emotional stoicism. These norms, while culturally rooted, have inadvertently contributed to harmful behaviors, including violence against women and girls, gender-based discrimination, and the perpetuation of inequality at all levels of society.
A stark example of this is usually seen in elections in our country, where gender stereotypes play a troubling role. Female opponents are usually discriminated against—not based on their abilities or qualifications, but on outdated notions that women are unfit for leadership or decision-making roles. Such behavior reflects how harmful societal norms can hinder progress and perpetuate injustice. We in Liberia know all too well that this is not true. Our history is replete with women who have played serious leadership roles in our country. Example: Chief Suakoko, a Liberian woman who became the first female president of an African national university; a Liberian woman who was the first African woman to chair the United Nations General Assembly; and a Liberian woman elected as the first female president of an African country. Liberian women are also breadwinners and community leaders. This is true leadership!
This is why today’s dialogue is so vital. It is a call to action for all of us to challenge and change these harmful norms. We must promote what is known as “positive masculinity”—a concept rooted in responsibility, respect, partnership, and caring. It is about redefining strength not as dominance but as accountability; not as the suppression of emotion, but as emotional maturity; not as wielding power over others, but as empowering and uplifting those around us.
In Liberia’s context, engaging men and boys as allies is essential for sustainable progress. For too long, our efforts have focused primarily on empowering women and girls—necessary as that is. But the reality is that men and boys hold significant influence, whether in homes, communities, or positions of authority. They are the gatekeepers of social norms and the stewards of cultural change. If we want to create a society where violence is minimized and gender equality prevails, we must involve them actively.
Our approach today, drawing on resources by Promundo and Men Engage, emphasizes engaging, interactive methods—discussions, videos, and shared reflection—that allow men to explore their own beliefs, challenge harmful stereotypes, and envision new ways of being that are equal and respectful.
The objectives are ambitious yet achievable. We seek to deepen their understanding of how harmful masculinity fuels systemic violence, discrimination, and inequality. We aim to encourage them to become proactive advocates and role models within their communities and spheres of influence. We also strive to build bridges between male leaders—including members of our legislature and policymakers—and women’s rights organizations, forging alliances that work toward policy change, community transformation, and cultural shifts.
The expected outcomes are clear and encouraging. We anticipate the emergence of a cohort of empowered men—leaders in government, civil society, and community settings—who are committed to challenging harmful norms and championing positive masculinity. We expect strengthened gender equality, increased awareness of positive masculinity, and tangible actions—policies, programs, and grassroots initiatives—that promote safety, respect, and opportunity for all.
Let me be quite candid: the path toward gender equality and the eradication of violence is indeed challenging. It requires courage, perseverance, and ongoing dialogue. But I firmly believe that Liberia, with its resilient spirit and dedicated people, can be a beacon of change across the continent.
Not only can we reframe masculinity, but we can also set an example of how societies can transform harmful norms into positive, constructive forces. As a nation, we have faced—and continue to face—numerous challenges: conflict, underdevelopment, and social disparities. Yet, through it all, our collective resilience stands as proof that change is possible. Embracing positive masculinity is part of that journey—a journey toward a Liberia where every woman and girl can live free from violence and discrimination, and every man can express his strength through respect and responsibility.
In closing, I call upon all of us—leaders, community members, policymakers, and indeed every one of you here today—to carry forward the message of this dialogue. Let us champion the redefinition of masculinity—one grounded in respect, empathy, and responsibility. It is through our collective efforts that we can dismantle harmful stereotypes and pave the way for a society where gender equality is the norm, not the exception.
Liberia’s future depends on the actions we take today. By engaging men as allies, we are not only transforming individual attitudes but also shaping a culture that respects human rights and promotes peace and stability for generations to come. Let us continue fostering these vital conversations, pushing for policies that support positive norms, and encouraging our communities to see that true strength lies in compassion and partnership.
We can build a Liberia where everyone—regardless of gender—has the opportunity to thrive, lead, and contribute meaningfully. This is not just an aspiration; it is an imperative. Let us stand united in this mission, committed to making positive masculinity a reality across our great nation.
Thank you.
